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Ol)£ Journal

OF THE

East Africa and Uganda
Natural History Society

February , 1939. Vol. XIV Nos. 1-2 (62-63)

CONTENTS

Museum’s Expedition to Chyulu Hills. General
Narrative (illustrated, map). (Part 1) By
V. G. L. van Someren 1— 14

Birds of the Chyulu Hills. (Part 2) By V. G. L.

van Someren, f.l.s., m.b.o.u., c.f.a.o.u., etc. ... 15 — 129

Butterflies of the Chyulu Hills. (Part 3) By V. G. L.

van Someren, f.r.e.s., f.l.s., etc 130 — 151

Two new races of Cicindelinae from Kenya; notes

on others. By Walther Horn, Berlin-Dahlem ... 152 — 153

Editor :

A. F. J. Gedye.

Date of Publication: February, 1939.

Additional copies to members, 10/-; non-members, 20/-

PRINTED BY THE EAST AFRICAN STANDARD LTD.

All Eights Reserved.

East Africa & Uganda Natural History Society

PATRONS:

HIS EXCELLENCY SIR R. BROOKE-POPHAM, G.C.V.O.,
K.C.B., C.M.G., D.S.O., A.F.C.

BRIG.-GEN. SIR JOSEPH BYRNE, G.C.M.G., K.B.E., C.B.
MAJ.-GEN. SIR EDWARD NORTHEY, G.C.M.G., C.B.

president:

G. BERESFORD-STOOKE, Esq.

vice-presidents:

H. J. ALLEN TURNER, Esq.

R. DAUBNEY, Esq., M.Sc., M.R.C.V.S.

EX. COMMITTEE i

V. A. BECKLEY, m.c., m.a., a.t.c.

MAJo*i CAVENDISH-BENTINCK,

M.L.C.

II. COPLEY, Esq.

A. M. CHAMPION, Esq., c.m.g.

C. R. CLARK, Esq.

A. F. J. GEDYE, Esq., f.r.e.s., f.z.s.
J. R. HUDSON, Esq., b.sc.,

M R C. V S

L. S. B. LEAKEY, ph.d., m.a.'

G. R. C. van SOMEREN, Esq.
MAJOR SUTCLIFFE, d.s.o.

A. VINCENT, Esq.

M. A. BLACK, Esq.

B. BARTON-ECKETT, Esq., a.l.a.

R. A. C. CAVENDISH, Esq.

H. M. GARDNER, Esq., c.b.e., b.a.

C. S. HITCHEN, ph.d., d.sc., a.r.c.s.,

t\ -r /-< W p C a

CANONIST. a.’ ROGERS, m.a.,

F.R.E.S.

R. E. V. SAUNDERS, Esq.

MAJOR E. H. WARD.

HON. TREASURER:

J. B. GOULD, Esq.

HON. SECRETARY AND CURATOR:

V. G. L. VAN SOMEREN, l.r.c.p.& s.Ed., l.r.f.p.& s.Gl., l.d.s.

R.C.S.Ed., F.I.C.D. , F.L.S., F.R.E.S., M.B.O.U., C.F.A.O.U., C.M.Z.S.

F.D.O.GSt. , EtC.

BOTANIST :

P. R O. BALLY, Esq.

LIBRARIAN:

A. F. J. GEDYE, Esq.

Ol)e Journal

OF THE

East Africa and Uganda
Natural History Society

February, 1939. Vol. XIV Nos. 1-2 (62-63)

CONTENTS

Museum’s Expedition to Chyulu Hills. General
Narrative (illustrated, map). (Part 1) By
V. G. L. van Someren 1 — 14

Birds of the Chyulu Hills. (Part 2) By V. G. L.

van Someren, f.l.s., m.b.o.u., c.f.a.o.u., etc. ... 15 — 129

Butterflies of the Chyulu Hills. (Part 3) By V. G. L.

van Someren, f.r.e.s., f.l.s., etc 130 — 151

Two new races of Cicindelinae from Kenya; notes

on others. By Walther Horn, Berlin-Dahlem ... 152 — 153

Editor :

A. F. J. Gedye.

Date of Publication: February, 1939.

Additional copies to members, 10/-; non-members, 20/ -

PRINTED BY THE EAST AFRICAN STANDARD LTD.

All Eights Reserved.

ERRATA-

Page 3 line 5 for piptedema read piptadema.

0 , sterculea , sterculia.

j 1 t y >

^ t 2 , capensis , capense.

9 , g , candalabra , candelabra.

14 , 45 , months , weeks.

18 , 17 * artemesia , artemisia.

, , indigophora , indigofera.

6l ^ n , erythrococcus , erythrococca.

Pages 54,61,69, for rapania read rapanea.

EAST AFRICA & UGANDA NATURAL HISTORY

SOCIETY.

THE EDITOR REGRETS THAT OWING TO UNAVOIDABLE DELAY,
THE ILLUSTRATIONS WHICH SHOULD ACCOMPANY THE “GENERAL
NARRATIVE” have not come to hand for incl ision in this Journal They will be
issued as a Separate, or with the next Journal , due in April

CORYNDON MEMORIAL MUSEUM EXPEDITION TO THE
CHYULU HILLS, APRIL— JULY, 1938.

Part 1.

General Narrative.

By V. G. L. VAN Someren.

One frequently reads in the local and overseas Press of
Scientific Expeditions to Kenya; what they intend to do, and how
they have fared after the “ safari ” is over. Then, so far as the
public is concerned, all is forgotten. Occasionally, as time goes
on, the Museum receives papers and Journals containing reports
on the results of the expedition. The material and specimens
collected are taken out of the country, and Kenya is the poorer
by so much. Thousands of pounds are spent on these expedi-
tions, and the public of Kenya gain little. International science
may or may not gain. This gradual draining of Kenya’s scientific
wealth has for many years been regretted by those of us who
are interested, and indeed we have chafed against fate that has
not brought funds our way, so that the results of scientific work,
could in part, remain within the Colony.

There is a saying “ that all things come to them that wait
this may be so, and truly we have been patient, and this patience
has in some measure been rewarded. Towards the end of
1937 funds were made available for field work, particularly in
connection with botany. This money, a sum of £500, was
donated by Mr. W. D. Campbell of New York. At the time the
donation was made, we had no Botanist attached to the Museum,
but we were making every endeavour to persuade those who
“ hold the purse strings ” that a botanist was a necessary member
of the Museum staff. An appointment was made early in 1938.

Our next concern was, how to expend this money to the best
advantage? Those of you who have been associated with the
Museum for any length of time will have realised that the im-
portance of field work has alw7ays been to the forefront, and
plans against the day when money would be available had
already been formulated.

The Chyulu Hills as a field likely to prove of interest had
been marked on the map many years before. They were virtu-
ally unexplored, only roughly surveyed, and by reason of the
fact that they are situated in the Southern Game Reserve, had
remained a more or less unknown quantity. Their situation was
suggestive as a possible stepping stone between the Kilimanjaro
highlands and those of Kenya.

The last cursory survey of the district was carried out during
the war, and this was directed more to the localising of possible
water supplies than to general topographical work.

At the outset we were fortunate in enlisting the help of Mr.
MacArthur of the Game Department who knew the area better
than most, and with his assistance the preliminary arrangements
were carried out. Mr. and Mrs. A. B. C. Smith of Kibwezi,
together with Mr. Cullen, gave us the hospitality of their com-
fortable homes before we set out on our safari for the hills, and
during our stay on the Range the former very kindly acted as
banker and forwarding agent. This assistance was invaluable
and greatly appreciated.

The members of this expedition included Mr. Bally (botanist),
Mr. Allen Turner (general field assistant), myself, and my
youngest son, together with a staff of trained native assistants,
and 60 odd porters. Mrs. Bally joined the party toward the end
of May.

The Chyulu Hills lie west by south of Kibwezi station at a
distance of roughly 25 miles, and the north-west of Kilimanjaro
at about 45 miles as the crow flies. The Kibwezi plains with their
extensive laval flow lie on the one side, while the Laitokitok
plains, lower by several hundred feet, lie on the western side.
It was reported that ever-green forest existed on the heights of
the range in contrast to the plains vegetation surrounding them.
The hills form a compact continuous chain of roughly 30 miles in
length, and were said to rise to a height of just over 7,000 feet,
the Kibwezi plains being approximately 3,000 feet.

One permanent water spring was known to exist at the
northern section of the hills, otherwise there was no surface
water, and on this limited supply the party had to exist during
the investigation of the entire range. At one time, according to
native legend, other springs existed, right up to the time when
there was Chagga settlement on the hills, but when these were
driven off the hills by the Masai, the retreating Wachagga cast
spells on the springs so that they dried up.* The existing spring
was the site of their last settlement which they evacuated
hurriedly and there was no time to bewitch this last water
supply. Be that as it may, there was evidence of some consider-
able settlement on the northern portion of the range at some
time, as distinct from Wakamba settlement at the base of the
hills.

A few remarks must be made regarding the approach to the
hills. No road exists; the line of approach lies along native paths
of which there are two main ones, passing over the hills to
Laitokitok, and a third from both Kibwezi and Masongaleni to
Taveta. Our first camp was made at Ithaba Swamp, some 12

* The old Wakamba men stated that the previous occupants of the range
were not the Wachagga of Kilimanjaro but another tribe which had
died out after being driven off. This we could not verify.

miles on our way, at an altitude of just over 3,000 feet. Soon
after leaving Kibwezi Station, the path leads over an extensive
lava flow on which considerable closed forest exists. This pecu-
liar lava-forest is composed largely of Acacias, Commiphora,
Piptedenia, and Euphorbias, with Fig and stunted Teclea and an
almost impenetrable under-bush.

Leaving the laval ridge, the path goes through more open
country, the dominant trees being Acacia spirocarpa, Boababs,
two species of Sterculea (from the bark of one excellent fibre is
obtained), and Commiphora. This I have termed Acacia thorn-
bush. Numerous Gneiss outcrops are visible along the path.
This belt gives way to a more orchard-like formation; Combre-
tums, Cussonia, and a few Acacias are the chief trees. In this
portion the Gneiss outcrops are larger, forming hillocks, many of
which are more wooded than the surrounding plains. The path
rises through this zone and then drops to the Ithaba Swamp
which lies in a depression bordered on two sides by a belt of lava.
The swamp holds water only during and just after the rains.
When we camped at this spot, the only surface water was held in
numerous foot prints of elephant and rhino. This spot is
evidently a favourite watering place of game in this area. The
water, though muddy, was very welcome. Tsetse flies, of two
species, together wTith Tabanids and Haematopota (both biting
flies), were very numerous throughout the day, but fortunately
mosquitoes were not numerous by night.

An early start was made next morning soon after daylight;
the porters going ahead, and just as well, for during the night
there had been a slight shower and the dew was heavy, leaving
the tall grass wet and unpleasant until the sun had dried it off.
Successive lava flows were traversed as the path gradually
ascended. The going was rough and very hard, for lava is an un-
pleasant substance to walk on. Many of the lava ridges were
thickly covered with Euphorbias, Commiphora, and Acacias, while
the intervening zones carried Combretum, Cussonia , and Cela-
stracea.

Toward the foot-hills an extensive lava ridge is crossed and
this is thickly wooded. Here one noted many familiar trees such
as Rawsonia, Teclea, Drypetes, Strychnos, Olive, Catha, and a few
Cedars. Flowering herbs and shrubs were numerous, conspicuous
amongst them being an exceptionally fine blue Acantha.

Butterflies were numerous, including Papilio dardanus. I
mention this species in particular, because it was entirely absent
in the forests at the north end of the Range. Wherever the lava
outcrop was large and rugged, there, tree growth was most
prolific. In many of the depressions and dongas between these
lava terraces, the grass was rank and the atmosphere steamy. In

such situations flowering shrubs and herbs were in full blossom,
most noticeable amongst them were pink and purple Hibiscus,
masses of several species of Convolvulus, both upright and
creepers, numerous Composites and Acanthaceae, Crotalaria, and
a beautiful orange and maroon ground orchid. On the flowering
spikes of the Crotalaria were hundreds of orange, and black and
white Lycaenids, feeding on the juices from the plant glands and
on the coccid which swarmed on the stems. At about the 3,500
foot level the trees and bush gave way to grass lands interspersed
with patches of trees.

In some of the depressions the grass was several feet above
one’s head and going was rather hard, to say nothing of the cuts
one received from the razor-edged grass blades as one forced one’s
way through. A little further on, a welcome break and inter-
lude presented itself in the form of a derelict plantation where
bananas, muhogo, and sugarcane grew in profusion, and large fig
trees gave welcome shade. We here halted for an hour to give
the porters time to rest and feed. I might mention here that
there is no native settlement on the Chyulu hills; the nearest
native locations are at Kibwezi. These now abandoned shambas,
of which there are four along the base of the hills, were once the
site of considerable Wakamba settlement, long since returned to
their reserve. Apart from the various crops mentioned, evidence
of previous occupation was given in the form of primitive sugar-
cane mills, vertical and horizontal, by means of which the cane
juice was extracted and subsequently converted into beer with
the aid of the fruit of the Kigelia. Judging by the piles of cane
fibre and the number of beer pots stored away in derelict huts,
a vast quantity of this potent liquid must have been brewed.

From these shambas, the path ascends steeply through thickly
covered grass land and passing along the sides of the hills
emerges on to a wide lava terrace with scattered acacia and other
trees, mostly Cussonia and Erythrina in clumps, and after a
further rise another lava flow is reached. This is mostly grass
covered and flat. Amongst the flowering herbs here met with,
mention should be made of a Blue Lupin, a handsome large
yellow Composite, masses of pink flowered Sopuhia ( Scrophul -
ariaceae) streamers of White Clematis trailing over the grass,
orange Gladioli, and patches of white Gentians.

As one ascends from the second lava flow patches of forest
become visible, mostly in depressions, and these we afterwards
realised were situated in old volcanoes. As one enters a forest
patch one descends on a steep bank through undergrowth of
varying density and if the crater is deep one may descend per-
haps two hundred feet until at the bottom one notes that large

trees have ceased and the floor of the crater is covered only by
a dense herbage, mostly Piper capensis, and a mass of creepers.

Our first mountain camp was reached at about 4 p.m. and we
were, as one of the party described it, “ completely dessicated.”
Tea is always a great stand-by, and I imagine on that occasion we
must have drunk gallons. On the way up to the camping site
we inspected the only permanent water supply of the entire
range. This is a semi-circular shelf of lava in a deep cutting,
covered with masses of maidenhair fern, and from this, the water
drips steadily, though in no great quantity. MacArthur with
wise foresight had installed karais along the line of the drips to
supplement the primitive wooden troughs, hollowed out from
Cussonia logs, which had been left in position by the long
departed previous residents of the hills. In addition there were
two 60 gallon drums now full to the brim, and by keeping these
filled daily our water supply was assured.

Arrived m camp, the tents were erected and stores stacked
along the sides of a large thatched “ banda ” which the advance
porters had erected. This was to be our “ home ” for the next
month, and very comfortable we found it, except when the wind
blew strongly and the moisture-saturated mist descended on the
camp, as it did almost every night, soaking everything, including
bedding and clothes. One’s clothes, kept in a suitcase, became
damp and mildewy.

Still, this was all part of the fun. The night temperature
was often round about 45°, and with the damp, it was decidedly
chilly; six blankets and a hot-water bottle were often needed.

For these minor discomforts, there were many compensa-
tions; the view from the camp on a clear morning was magnifi-
cent; on the east one overlooked the Kibwezi plains toward Mutha
and the Yatta plateau, on the west, the Laitokitok plains with
Kilimanjaro towering in the distance. Very often, just after
sunrise with the camp bathed in brilliant sun, the surrounding
plains would be shrouded in a thick white blanket of clouds. We
knew then that within a very short time these clouds would rise,
and be blown in both directions upward on to the Chyulu hills
and these in turn would be obscured for perhaps three hours
before the sun penetrated through.

The northern and central portions of the Chyulu range
present many interesting features. Broadly speaking the range
here consists of a central ridge of volcanic cinder cones rising to
6,000 odd feet with subsidiary series on either flank. The slopes
of these volcanoes are grass clad on the outer side, and within
the craters are patches of forest of varying extent. Very few of
the craters were devoid of forest. At intervals between the main
craters and the outlying series are considerable lava flows; some

almost flat, others with a gentle slope; others again in terraces.
On some of the larger and lower lava flows at 4,000 feet con-
siderable cedar forests were a feature.

On some of the larger cones, where disintegration and ero-
sion had taken place, pure stands of Catha edulis occurred and
alongside these, previous occupants of the foot-hills had developed
their sugarcane and banana shambas. Many of the craters
descended to 400 and 500 feet and more, and where these were
forest clad, one could look across from one side of the forest to
the other.

The forest patches varied in size from an acre to more than
sixty in extent. In some cases the trees had overflowed the crater
rim, so to speak, and had crept along the outer side of the lip, but
in such cases the trees were usually somewhat stunted owing to
the very strong and ever-present wind. Also, one might note in
passing that periodical grass fires were definitely instrumental
in restricting forest growth. There was evidence on many sides
that this had been the case, particularly with the northern and
central portion with which we are now dealing. The presence of
forest growth within the craters appeared to be dependent on the
extent of surface weathering and disintegration of volcanic
cinder, combined with moisture, resulting in a gradual silting up
of the crater sides.

It is a remarkable fact, as yet unexplained, that many of the
craters did not have large trees growing in the bottom of the
depressions. It has been suggested that this might be accounted
for by the presence of a volcanic core or plug of lava on which
no depth of soil existed. Actually, an examination of such a
base by means of a soil drill, showed greater depth of soil and
humus in the base than at the sides or lip. The problem is still
one of the unsolved riddles of the hills.

One very large crater, measuring over 400 feet in depth and
shown on the map of the northern portions of the range prepared
by Messrs. Champion and Hitchens, as the “ bare crater,” con-
tained no forest; merely a few Erythrina trees around which
Leonotis and Vernonia had grown. This lack of forest growth is
another unsolved riddle. An adjacent crater, known as “ Giant
Crater,” over 500 feet deep, contained cedar on its western slopes,
stunted tree growth on its southern aspect with sheer cliffs and
a bare “ scree ” on its north-west aspect.

Taken as a whole it can be said that each crater was forested.
An interesting fact was noted that most of the northern and
central craters has a break or depression in the lip or wall toward
the south-east. It has been suggested to us that this might be
due to the prevailing wind blowing strongly during the process
of eruption and thus causing a heaping up on the far side and

a denudation of lava ash on the exposed side. This appeared a
feasible explanation until one noted that on the southern portion
of the range, these depressions were west, south and east. Did
the wind change?

During the first two months of our stay on the hills, the rains
were on, and as a result, flowering shrubs and herbs were at their
best. With the exception of the Erythrina and Cussonia which
are deciduous, the forest trees were ever-green; mist and rain
fed, they had developed in the sheltered craters and proved a most
interesting study.

Apart from the actual collecting of natural history speci-
mens attention was given to the general geological formation and
topography, for undoubtedly these were important factors in any
attempt to work out the ecology or general inter-relationship of
the species to soil, vegetation and altitude.

In these respects we were fortunate in interesting Messrs.
Champion and Hitchens who between them carried out a topo-
survey of the north end of the range and studied its geology.
Unfortunately these gentlemen were unable to devote more than
ten days to the work and the data collected by them was aug-
mented by additional material and bearings carried out by myself
during June and July. We now have a sketch map which shows
the general topography of the entire range.

The first month was devoted to a study of the northern portions
of the range; and toward the beginning of May, Mr. and Mrs. Bally
and Turner moved camp and worked the central portion of the
range. This was a useful preliminary to the investigation of
southern portion. This last section of the hills presents some
pretty problems, for in this we find the greatest development
of forest growth, mostly on the western side, and at the same
time it is at the bases of these higher volcanoes that one finds
the most recent evidence of volcanic activity as indicated by
vents, blow-holes, and immense lava flows with terraced and
parallel lava extrusions more particularly between the main
range and the southern Chyulus. As a whole, the eastern
aspect of the south end of the main range is more precipitous
than either north or central, and there is a lack of any sub-
sidiary line of cones or hills, thus the main ridge slopes steeply
to the plains for more than 4,000 feet. These slopes are deeply
scored by raised lava ridges with deep gullies in between;
many of them showing considerable erosion. In these erosion
trenches there is evidence of wearing by water-flow for the
cinder and lapelli covering is slight, in many places entirely
washed off, so that the hard lava lies just below a sparse cover-
ing of dwarf grass. The storm water must here drain off

rapidly. Between the main ridge and the last of the sub-
sidiary cones on the eastern aspect is a wide lava flow deeply
scored in the middle where two adjacent lava beds have made
contact. In this drainage channel commencing forest has
sprung up, limited almost entirely to Erythrina at the upper
portions, it widens out into mixed forest which eventually
makes contact with a considerable patch of similar forest on
a large lava flow at the foot of the hills. It is along this chain
of gradually extending forest that such species as Papilio
dardanus, and Amauris niavius, entirely absent on the north
and central portions of the hills, have extended upwards. It
is also along such natural chains that certain species of plains
insects and birds have crept up.

So much for the eastern aspect of the southern end of the
range. We must now digress and describe the approach to this
section, via the plains, carried out by Mr. MacArthur and myself
from the old Masongaleni-Noka road. This track is now over-
grown and much broken up, except for a narrow path already
referred to as going to Taveta. I would certainly not advise
anyone to take it unless he has urgent business that way. After
the first 15 miles it passes over some of the roughest lava flows
I have ever met with. Huge blocks of lava clinker, covered with
either lichen or stunted forest growth, ran in parallel lines for
miles. Their abrasive qualities had to be experienced to really
be known. Nevertheless, through such places one noted recent
tracks of elephant and rhino; how they move over such ground is
a marvel. Emerging from this rough going one enters portions of
rising ground with forest growth of fair proportions, and in the
valleys were evidence of previous cultivations. These old
shambas were now densely overgrown with every imaginable
sort of thorny scrub up to eight or ten feet high, and impassable
except by cutting one’s way through. I certainly think this
portion was far more difficult to traverse than were the lava beds.
We had counted on finding water in a rock pool at Noka (a soli-
tary gneiss outcrop), which was our objective for the first day’s
trek, but on arrival late in the afternoon, we found that the
elephant and rhino had been there before us and not more than
a gallon of very brackish water remained. That night we went
short rationed, cheered by the thought that at our next camp
there would be water from two giant fig trees in the forest. The
first four miles next morning were hardly less trying and tiring
than that of the day previous, but we cut our way through, doing
about a mile an hour. This part over, the track began to rise
over wide lava terraces on which the dominant trees were a
species of Strychnos, spaced so regularly that it gave one the
impression of an immense planted apple orchard.

The going was certainly better, but the lava worked havoc
among the porter’s feet. At length we reached the main lava
flow which separates the south end of the main Chyulus from the
Southern Chyulus. Here were lava ridges running in parallel
series in a south-easterly direction, with every degree of extru-
sion from a mere ridge to cones and blow-holes twenty and thirty
feet high and of comparatively recent lava. Some were entirely
bare, others were crowned with Candalahra Euphorbias and other
succulent plants.

Here also were the famous lava domes three to ten or 15 feet
in diameter, with thin crusts of lava covering a vent. On open-
ing up some of these one noted that the inner surface of the
crust was blued, and many of the holes went sheer down into
pitch blackness and if a stone was dropped down one could not
hear it touch bottom. Alongside some of these blow-holes were
parallel lava pipes, exposed along the top, like badly-laid drain
pipes, completely hollow and perforated toward the end. Some
of the lava extrusions from these vents were of the twisted rope
formation; others in “ drop ” formation as though the viscid lava
had been forced up and through a series of openings and had
“ set ” or solidified on cooling.

It was a most interesting spot but hard going. Arrived at
the site for the camp, we next went in search of the water trees
in the forest nearby. Again our luck was out; one tree was split
as by lightning, and the other had rotted at the base and no longer
held any water We were thus rationed to one cup of water each;
our only hope of water was at Campi-ya-Simba, some ten miles
off on the Taveta track. This pleasant little tramp we reserved
for daylight next morning. All available receptacles that might
hold water were collected over-night, and two porters were
assigned to each, with orders that at day-break they were to start.
It was not until 2 p.m. that afternoon that we had our first real
drink since leaving the dam on the Masongoleni track. The
tramp to Campi-ya-Simba was not without interest, for one was
thus able to study the formation of the Chyulu hills from the
south-western aspect.

The main lava flow stops short of the narrow neck between
the last of the main volcanoes of the Chyulus proper and the semi-
circular series of cones forming the Southern Chyulus. A patch
of thin forest slopes down out of the crater on the last hill and
runs into a steep-sided valley, and this is succeeded by a double
lava terrace; the first with a gradual slope and then more abrupty
downward to the Masai plains where the lava is turned south-
west by gneiss outcrops. Many of the gneiss outcrops stand sheer
out of the plains and form a distinctive feature of the area. The
Taveta track crosses and recrosses a considerable lava flow, some

of it covered in tree growth, but much entirely bare except for
lichens and a few succulent plants. The north-western margin
of the flow is abrupt and defined and stands well above the plains
and it is on this side that the famous Italweni “ blow-hole ” exists.
This hole is of immense size with precipitous sides descending
some thirty to fifty feet with a cavern at one end, and here,
natives coming to and from Taveta take shelter for the night.
The cavern is capable of accommodating about 80 individuals.
Another feature of interest is a volcanic cone with a perfect rim;
the interior is sparsely grass grown and its outer slopes are thickly
covered with grass which ends abruptly at a wide ring of volcanic
clinker varying from twenty to sixty feet in width. Many of the
lumps are over a foot through and lie piled on top of each other
in a rugged wTall; it is entirely devoid of vegetation. Beyond this
belt, a tangled mass of creepers and stunted trees and masses of
coarse lichen merge on to the plains. The western aspect of the
first southern Chyulu hill is covered with a pure stand of Catha
edulis. This tree is of particular interest for its leaves, bark, and
roots contain an invigorating substance which is valued by
natives, Somalis, and Indians. The leaves and roots are chewed
and report has it that on a long safari no sense of fatigue is felt;
furthermore, elderly folk who would otherwise be unable to do
a journey are buoyed up by chewing these leaves and suffer no
ill effects from the exertion of the safari. While we were in
residence at Camp 1, a party of old men and women passed
through and each was carrying a bunch of these leaves from
which they took a bite as they went along.

We were dead beat when we got back into camp from the
Italweni track, but having obtained a supply of water for the
next lap toward the hills at 6,500 feet we felt more contented,
and we counted on finding water again at our next camping site,
water which we knew would have to be brought from Camp 2,
somewhere about the centre of the range. Our luck was out, for
late that evening two of our old porters turned up from Camp 2
with a note to say that this camp was about two days’ march from
where we now were, and that the water supply was anything but
sufficient. The position was serious and after talking it over we
decided to push on and establish a camp on the highest ridge of
the south end, yet within reasonable distance of Camp 2 on which
we were dependent for water supplies. We agreed to cut down
our porters to a minimum, retaining six for future water-relay
purposes and the remainder to return to Masongaleni in one lap.
The water we had was divided into two portions sufficient for
one day for both parties. We shifted camp soon after daybreak
next morning taking only such loads as were necessary for future
collecting; our food supply was nearly exhausted for we had
reckoned on making contact with Camp 2 without difficulty.

There was no known track from the Italweni lava flow up to
the hills so we took the most direct line which meant a steady
rise of 2,000 feet in little more than two miles over loose volcanic
gravel where a false step meant a downward slide of several
feet. At the end of three hours, the porters were nearly done in,
in spite of changing loads every half hour, and we had as yet
covered only half the distance, so a halt of half an hour was
called. The going was extremely difficult and we agreed to
march for one more hour and pitch our camp wherever we hap-
pened to be. We were then about 1,000 feet below the forest
edge. Scanning the upper slopes with binoculars we noted what
appeared to be a track and made for this point. It turned out
to be an old buffalo trail which ran along the hill side and it was
surprising how easy the gradient was, and had we known it, this
track ran almost the entire length of the southern hills and
entered the forest beside which we had pitched our camp the
previous day some half a mile higher up. We eventually made
the forest edge at the lip of an immense crater and here the
porters off-loaded, not without sighs of relief. While the tent
was being erected our small supply of water was divided between
the porters, leaving about four gallons which had to last at least
one more day between eight of us. We had a bite of food,
washed down with tea and then MacArthur returned with the
balance of the porters and empty water tanks to the Italweni
camp and so on to Noka and the Masongoleni road dam, promis-
ing to send up posho and water as soon as Kibwezi was again
reached. Contact with Camp 2 was made the next day, the
porters carrying an S.O.S. for water and posho. The following
day Bally turned up, having taken four and a half hours between
camps, travelling light, via the lava flows at the base of the hills.
We discussed the water problem and figured out that water would
have to be carried roughly fifteen miles in two relays each day,
from Camp 1 in order to supply just sufficient for cooking pur-
poses. It was thus impossible to close down Camp 2 and transfer
all activities to the southern hills, for it had to be maintained as
a forwarding centre. A brief reconnaissance of the possibilities
of Camp 3 made it amply clear that this southern end must be
worked; the miles of the Great Chyulu Forest lay before us, as
yet untouched. In the two days I had already spent at this spot,
several birds unrecorded from the north and central forests had
been obtained; insects and flowers not hitherto met with were
here in abundance; and a general survey of the southern end of
the range had to be carried out.

Food, water, and a redistribution of the porters for relay
purposes were the problems to be faced. We ultimately fixed
up a working arrangement which would ensure a bare sufficiency

of water amounting to eight gallons every two days for 10
persons; certainly not much, and washing, baths, and even shav-
ing became things of the past. We finally arranged that Turner
should remain on in Camp 2 to supervise the water arrangements,
while Bally and Mrs. Bally joined me at the southern camp. The
distance between the two camps, although only about six miles
in a straight line, was nearer 11 by the route Bally had taken,
which meant a four and half hours trek, so my first endeavour
was to cut as direct a traverse through the great forest as was
possible, and by keeping to the higher ground we eventually had
a line of communication of two and a half hours’ walk. In this
work we were assisted to an enormous degree by making use of
buffalo trails, for these forest animals, far from being a nuisance,
gave us the line with the best gradients and thus fairly easy
going. These buffalo tracks are wonderfully graded, and we
very soon found that they had regular paths throughout the
forest of which we availed ourselves on many occasions. In
order to facilitate collecting and to avoid the persistent wind
which blew strongly and most unpleasantly, I shifted my camp
to a sheltered spot at the edge of the high forest at 6,500 feet.

Here we erected a substantial “ banda ” as a work room, and
having got thoroughly settled in we commenced a thorough
survey of the great forest which extended for miles below and
above us. From this camp we obtained a wonderful view of the
immensity of continuous forest growth, which, measured as one
block was roughly five miles by three to four, of splendid timber,
with large blocks of outlying forest to the south and west. The
highest Chyulu peak, covered in dense forest, rose to 7,200 feet
in the centre of the biggest block. In order to obtain a general
idea of the contents of the forest, both botanically and faunisti-
caily, and to facilitate topographical work, we cut traverses in
several directions. From these cuttings we were able to appre-
ciate the fact that this now immense forest had originated, as
was the case in the northern section, as crater and valley forests
which had, because of its sheltered position, extended and become
confluent and gradually merged into one more or less huge block.
I personally visited all the high ground within the forest and
explored each of the craters which were now densely wooded.
It was a noticeable fact that most of the highest points carried
a pure stand of a large leafed Croton and in cutting traverses on
high ground, the presence of this species indicated that one was
nearing the top of the cone. The whole of the forest floor was
damp, being drenched almost nightly by heavy mist and dew,
and the rotting vegetation and humus formed a carpet in which
ferns and ground orchids abounded. The wettest portions of
the forest were those on the western aspect of the hills. Here

the trees were laden with mosses and ferns and were dripping
wet all day long. In these forests we obtained six species of
birds which were not recorded previously, and others which were
distinctly scarce in the central forests were here abundant. The
beautiful mauve-tinged ground orchid Calanthe volkensii grew
in perfection and literally carpeted the forest floor in places,
whilst giant ferns (not tree ferns) with fronds over ten feet long,
relieved the dominant Piper undergrowth in large patches.
Many of the forest trees grew with straight boles to over 100
feet from a girth of 7-8 feet.

This Great Chyulu forest is a good example of an evergreen
mist-forest. The main portion, seen from above, gave the impres-
sion of being in a huge basin with high sides, with here and there
lesser hills entirely forest clad within the basin. The eastern
rim, devoid of forest on its outer aspect, sloped steeply to the
Kibwezi-Masongaleni plains, while the western rim, which was
forest clad, sloped more gradually to the Masai plains. These
high forests were intensely cold even at mid-day with the sun
shining brightly.

Within the forests buffalo were numerous; two herds 20 and
25 strong roamed the forest below our camp and emerged on an
mbuga or open grass-covered flat at the edge of the forest, morn-
ing and evening. Solitary bulls were not infrequently encoun-
tered during our tramps through the heavy forest undergrowth.
Leopards and forest pigs were seen and heard; Sykes monkeys
were in large troops, whilst at night galagoes cried until the early
morning. Tree hyrax were present but seldom seen. More
than once, serval cats were put up in the long grass on the
eastern slopes. Reedbuck were noted in twos and threes on the
higher exposed grassy slopes on the eastern face; Eland, Greater
Kudu, Kongoni, and an occasional Duiker were seen in the grass
lands between the main ridge and the outlying cones of the
central portions, on the eastern side. An occasional Lion was
heard and twice animals killed by them, a Buffalo and a Reed-
buck, were found. At the northern end a solitary Giraffe visited
Camp 1. The forest Pigs were of an enormous size, but we were
unable to ascertain the species. At many places along the edges
of the higher forests at 6,800 feet we noted areas where they had
been routing amongst the herbage.

For purposes of taking bearings and observations, every high
point in the southern portion of the range was visited by means
of forest traverses, every foot of which we had to cut through
thick and soaking undergrowth. Hardly any rain fell during the
last six weeks on the hills, yet the forests were kept saturated
by mist and heavy dew. Bearings were taken right through to
the second camp just north of which Hitchens and Champion had

carried out their final observations and established beacons.
Working back from these and other fixed points we were able to
produce a sketch map which shows the general topography of the
entire range. These bearings, supplemented by panorama photo-
graphs, give one a good idea of the general formation of the hills.

Two special visits were paid to the highest ridge of the range,
7,200 feet, which, as 1 have already mentioned, was densely forest
clad. On the first occasion we checked up this point with obser-
vations and bearings taken at various northern and southern
beacons; subsequently it was worked botanically and faunisti-
cally. One particular feature, from a botanical and faunal point
of view, was of great interest. The top of the ridge consisted of
a narrow gently rising plateau not more than forty to fifty feet
wide, on the sides of which giant trees, Cornus volkensii , grew in
the form of a great natural avenue, with their branches almost
meeting overhead. Along this avenue were Buffalo paths lead-
ing to the highest point and here the beasts had trampled down
the vegetation into two large “ bomas ” in which obviously they
spent a considerable portion of the day. On both visits Buffalo
had been in recent occupation as fresh dung was present on all
sides. From this ridge, the ground slopes steeply east and west
and on the south-western aspect is a very deep crater now densely
forested, which had formerly supplied much of the lava now
lying below the floor of the Great Chyulu Forest.

It can be safely assumed that the forest growth at the
southern end is the result of greater moisture and shelter as a
result of the general conformation of the range, though with the
limited time at our disposal we were unable to obtain evidence
that it was any older than that of the north end. It would appear
from such evidence as we obtained that the main ridge of
volcanoes of the south were subjected to less general tectonic
activity than those of the north and that subsequent to the throw-
ing up of the main ridge, subsidiary activity was limited to the
bases of these main cones. In the meantime the weathering and
disintegration of the lava, assisted by the heavy deposition of
moisture in this area, produced a soil on which tree growth was
more readily established than was the case in the north.

Throughout our residence on the south end heavy banks of
mist were continually carried on to the hills from a south-
westerly direction, in fact, it often happened that the higher
points of the forest were entirely mist covered up to noon. No
cloud or mist was driven up from the east, and as already men-
tioned, this aspect of the range was more or less clear of forest
growth except in the sheltered craters.

During the last month or six months on the hills we were
short rationed for food and water and tobacco, but the abundance
of material and data collected amply repaid us for any hardships.

14 ‘

REPORTS ON THE CORYNDON MUSEUM EXPEDITION TO
THE CHYULU HILLS.

Part 2.

THE BIRDS OF THE CHYULU HILLS.

1. Introduction.

(a) General topography.

(b) General description of avifaunal zones.

2. Systematic List, Field Notes, and Taxonomic Notes.

By V. G. L. van Someren, m.b.o.u., c.f.a.o.u., etc.

General Introduction.

A general outline of the topography of the range has been
given in the opening narrative; it remains now to supply a more
detailed description of the area covered by this report, in relation-
ship to the avifauna. The Chyulu range is entirely volcanic in
origin and would appear to have erupted through a line of faults
in the basement complex from about the junction of Lat. 20° S.
and Lg. 38° in a N.W. direction towards Simba, and now
separating the Kibwezi plains from those of the Kilimanjaro-
Laitokitok area.

The Kibwezi plains now fairly dry, and covered with an
Acacia-Commiphora-Baobab-Euphorbia association, and later by
a Combretum-Acacia, the so-called orchard or park-land associa-
tions, had been in parts considerably heightened by a series of
lava flows from the Chyulu hills, most of which run in a south-
easterly direction. The country is fertile and the grass and bush
growth dense. The drainage off the hills to the east follows the
general line of the lava flows and permanent surface water is
present in the Kibwezi river valley.

The level of the plains can be taken as between 2,000 and
3,500 feet with a gradual rise by laval terraces towards the hills,
interrupted at points by laval ridges on which vegetation is
modified and more prolific. A different association of trees is
present, and many of those noted, are common in the dry “closed”
forests around Nairobi (Teclea, Oiea, Drypetes, Strychnos, Pipta-
denia, etc.). The elevation of these mixed forests is approxi-
mately 3,000-4,000 feet. On some of the larger more disinte-

grated flows, cedar is present especially toward the north of the
Chyulu hills. Nearer the base of the hills the lava ridges are
more abrupt, the depressions between them have been partially
silted up. Vegetation is rank and the atmosphere humid and
definitely tropical. It is in such places that one finds species of
Liptenines and other Lepidoptera usually associated with these
particular climatic conditions. Toward the bases of the outer
volcanic cinder cones, the lava flows take the form of wide
terraces with intervening depressions containing disintegrated
larva and humus washed down from the hills, thus forming
extremely fertile pans at roughly 4,000 feet. In such places
Wakamba natives had at one time established “ shambas ” of
sugarcane, maize, muhogo, and bananas. From this level the
hills rise abruptly in a series of cinder cones, many of them with
marked erosion lines forming dongas and crevices. The volcanic
cones are interrupted here and there by lava flows which have
arisen from the main ridge of long extinct volcanoes. Some of
the outlying cones have craters of varying dimensions with small
commencing forests. In the valleys and on the lava flows the
dominant trees are Erythrina, Combretum, Cussonia, and species
of Acacia. Up to this point the bird fauna is typical of the plains
and bush country. Amongst others we find the following:

Mirafra fischeri.

Mirafra (africana) herterti.
Lamprocolius chalybeus.
Erythropygia leucoptera.
Cisticola cheniana.

Cisticola cinereola.
Calamonastes simplex.
Andropadus insularis.

Batis molitor.

Buchanga adsimilis.
Coracias caudatus.

Anthoscopus.

Parus afer.

Rhodophoneus cathemegmanus.
Laniarius funebris.

Nilaus minor.

Telophorus quadricolor.
Tschagra senegala.

Indicator indicator.

Indicator minor.

Cinnyris albiventris, etc.

Lophocerus erythrorhynchus.

„ deckeni.

„ flavirostris.

Phoeniculus p. marwitzi.

Corythaixoides leucogaster.

(In addition several species of Weavers and Finches not met with
on the hills.)

* The birds are referred to binomially; the racial designation is given in
the systematic list which follows.

In the north-eastern portions of the foot-hills, and to a lesser
degree along its eastern aspect, all about the 4,000 foot level we
find patches of mixed savannah forests, and in these, certain of
the “ thorn-bush ” “ parkland ” birds find their way toward the
hills. A few of these extend up to about the 4,500 feet level for
feeding purposes. As already mentioned, these sparse forests are
situated on the lower lava flows and their depressions, where
cultivation has at one time existed. The birds round here feed
and roost in these places. The chief species are as follows :

Oriolus monachus.

Batis molitor.

Smithomis capensis.
Prionops poliocephalus.
Malaconotus approximans.
Dicrurus adsimilis.
Melaeomis ater.

Telophorus quadricolor.
Lybius leucocephalus senex.
Melittophagus cyanostictus.
Amblyospiza albifrons.

Sitagra ocularia.

Poliospiza angolensis.
Anaplectes melanotus.
Estrilda estrild.

Estrilda rhodopyga.
Streptopelia torquata.
Pternistes leucoscepus.
Numida mitrata.

Cossypha semirufa.
Camaroptera brevicaudata.

Above this elevation the ground rises steeply to the outlying
volcanic cones and is entirely grass covered. Between these
outer hills are a series of higher lava flows in terrace form,
entirely grass covered, and carrying small scattered clumps of
bush and what I have called an “Erythrina-Cussonia-Combretum
association.” Some of these flows are of considerable extent and
carry a large acreage of this “ Erythrina association,” and bird
life is here numerous, but of a type largely associated with the
low country. The average elevation is about 4,500 feet, but some
of the flows are 5,000 feet. The principal species found here are :

Campothera nubicus.

Halcyon chelicuti.

Tricholaema lachrymosa.

Pogonilius pusillus.

Indicator indicator.

Indicator minor.

Sigmodius retzii.

Nilaus minor.

Laniarius funebris.

Eurocephalus ruepelli.

Chlorophoneus sulphuripectus.
Tschagra senegala (in bush and grass).
Turdoides hypoleuca.

Centropus superciliosus (bush and grass).

Parus albiventris.

Parisoma bohmi.

Eremomela griseoflava.

Nectarinia kilimensis.

Chalcomitra senegalensis.

Sylvietta whytii.

Cisticola brachyptera.

Mirafra fischeri (grass lands).

Dinemellia dinemelli.

Anaplectes melanotis.

Estrilda estrild.

Euplectes capensis.

On the higher ground or moorlands between 5,000 and 6,500 feet,
where the grass is associated with woody herbs, as Sopubia,
various Composites (such as the large yellow Coreopsis ), Diplolo-
phium, Artemesia Indigophora, Lupin, and the orange and red
Gladiolus , a more limited bird fauna is found, which is definitely
associated with these higher elevations. The most plentiful
amongst them are:

Nectarinia formosa (feeding on Gladiolus).

Cisticola natalensis.

Cisticola aridula.

Schoenicola brevirostris.

Melocichla mentalis.

Saxicola torquata.

Tschagra senegala (for food only).

Anthus nicholsoni.

Francolinus africana.

It is at these elevations that we find the first patches of true
alpine forest, but limited entirely to the craters of the many
volcanic cones which form the central or main ridge of the range.
A detailed botanical survey of this forest was carried out and is
embodied in the Botanical Report, Cf.

The forests of the northern end of the range are evergreen,
but compared to those of the southern portion are, on the whole,
much drier. The exceptions are those contained within deep
craters where evaporation due to sun and wind is reduced to a
minimum. At the central portion of the range there is a definite
constriction due to the “tail-out7’ of the subsidiary volcanic
cones, especially on the eastern aspect, leaving only the main
ridge which rises to an average of 6,500 feet and carries on to the
highest peak at 7,200 feet. This high ridge is almost devoid of

Lilac-breasted Roller ( Coracias caudatus).

forest on its eastern face and is deeply scored by erosion trenches
and gullies. At the point where the last subsidiary cone ends
there is a considerable lava flow which carries a commencing
valley forest and this extends eastward and becomes contiguous
with a low mixed forest on a lava flow at 4,000 feet. It is along
this belt that many species of birds and lepidoptera of the low
country have extended on to the upper lava flows at 5,000 feet.
The western aspect of the main ridge, however, carries a heavy
forest, the result of confluent crater and valley forest formations,
and these are continuous with the southern forests and so on to
the Great Chyulu Forest of the southern end of the hills. The
range widens out just north of the highest point in the form of
an eastern series of cones set in a semi-circle, and a western
series of lesser cones, with between them, a very large lava flow
long since entirely covered with a dense forest growth, the
result of confluent crater forests. This block is now referred to
as the Great Chyulu Forest. This extensive forest, roughly 12
miles by four to five wide, is a typical rain or mist forest. It
is continually drenched with mist and heavy dew, and the floor
is perpetually wet and sodden. It is in this section of the
Tange that the tree trunks and branches are covered in moss and
ferns, whilst the canopy is thick with beard moss and dripping
wet throughout the day. This portion of the Chyulu forests
contains such species as Geokichla, Bradypterus , Turdus ,
Pseudoalcippe, Pogonocichla , Cryptospiza , and Aplopelia, to
mention only a few, in the greatest numbers; in fact they are
here, exceedingly common. Most of the timber trees here grow
to well over 100 feet with clean boles and many carry a
tangled mass of lianas of various species. The mid-growth is
heavy, whilst the undergrowth consists largely of Piper, giant
ferns, and ground-orchids.

The montane forests can be divided into zones, working
from the periphery inward, and into strata, horizontally and
vertically. Thus we record a marginal zone, an edging or fring-
ing forest zone and a mid zone; forest floor, undergrowth, and
mid-stratum and canopy.

In the outer or marginal zone we find a definite associa-
tion of woody herbs and creepers: Leonotis , Vemonia, Arte -
mesia, Coreopsis, Heteromorpha , Lantana , Desmodium, and
Cissus, and in the central and southern portions, giant Lobelia.
In some of the northern drier forests Erythrina still exists as
marginal or fringing trees. (With the outward extension of the
forest Erythrina die.)

This marginal zone has its quota of bird life for part of the
day, if not at all times. Here at the 5,000-7,000 levels we find:
Prinia mystacea.

Zosterops (feeding on Lobelia).

Nectarinia formosa (feeding on Lobelia and Leonotis).
Nectarinia reichenowi (feeding on Lobelia and Leonotis)
Cinnyris mediocris (feeding on Lobelia and Leonotis).
Cyanomitra olivacea (feeding on Lobelia and Leonotis).
Laniarius ferrugineus.

Alseonax murinus.

Lagonosticta rubricata.

Coccopygia melanotis.

Melocichla mentalis.

Within this marginal fringe, the edge of the forest growth forms
the feeding ground of various species, and the roosting site of
many others. These edges are characterised by a dense
tangled mass of creepers: Cissus, Clematis, Jasmin, Hibiscus,
and Composites, associated with marginal forest trees such as
Rapanea, Catha edulis, and Celastraceae. The species usually
noted are:

Francolinus squamatus (on the ground).

Laniarius ferrugineus (among the creepers).

Cossypha caffra
Cossypha semirufa
Dryoscopus cubla
Tschagra australis
Dendropicos fuscescens
Viridibucco leucomystax
Colius leucotis
Pycnonotus tricolor
Dioptrornis fischeri
Alseonax murinus
Seicercus umbrovirens
Ploceus reichenowi
Ploceus nigricollis
Nectarinia formosa
Nectarinia kilimensis
Zosterops sp.

In the body of the forest, there are strata as already indi-
cated, which are frequented for purposes of food or for roost-
ing, and certain species are to be noted in these, as follows :

Forest floor:

Francolinus squamatus (roosting in mid strata or fring-
ing trees).

Aplopelia larvata (feeding on ground; roosting in mid-
strata).

(on trees, hunting for food or
roosting at night)

Geokichla gumeyi (feeding on ground; roosting in mid-
strata or thick undergrowth).

Turdus olivaceus (feeding on ground as well as on
berries, roosting in mid and fringing trees).
Pogonocichla stellata (feeding, roosting in mid-strata).
Phyllastrephus fischeri (when feeding on ant trails).

Forest undergrowth and mid-stratum:

Aploderma narina (mid-stratum for food and roosting).
Phyllastrephus fischeri (food and roosting).

Seicercus umbro virens (food, and roosting in mid-
stratum).

Pseudoalcippe abyssinicus (food, and roosting in mid-
stratum).

Turdus olivaceus (food, and roosting in mid-stratum).
Pogonocichla stellata (food, and roosting in mid-stratum)
Bradypterus cinnamomeus (food, and roosting in under-
growth).

Brady pterus mariae (food, and roosting in undergrowth).
Zosterops sp. (food, roosting in mid-stratum).

Cryptospiza salvadorii (feeding on special grasses, roost-
ing in mid-stratum).

Cyanomitra olivacea (roosting in mid-stratum).

The birds of the forest canopy.

The majority of birds found in this stratum during the day
time are engaged in hunting for insect food or feeding on fruits.
Very few actually spend the hours of night in this stratum or in
its vicinity. The groups may be divided as follows:

Columba arquatrix (feeds in the canopy and roosts just
below, but more often seeks its food away from the
forest).

Vinago calva (feeds in canopy of fruit-bearing trees, often
out of the forest proper; roosts below the canopy.

Apalis nr. mosehi (feeds in canopy).

Apalis griseiceps (feeds in restricted places in canopy; roosts
in thick cover of mid-stratum).

Seicercus umbrovirens (feeds partly in canopy, roosts in
mid-stratum).

Zosterops sp. (feeds in canopy, roosts in mid-stratum).

Pholia femoralis
Pholia sharpei
Cinnyricinclus

These feed on fruits in the canopy
or on trees outside the forest,
roosting just below the canopy.

leucogaster

Dryoscopus cubla (feeds in canopy (partly) and roosts in
mid-stratum).

Viridibucco leucomystax (feeds in canopy (partly); roosts in
lianas and mid-stratum).

Buccanodon leucotis (feeds in canopy of fruiting trees; roosts
in old nest holes).

Arizelocichla milanjensis (feeds in canopy of fruiting trees,
roosts in lianas and mid-stratum).

Anthreptes collaris (feeds in canopy, roosts mid-stratum).

Cinnyris mediocris (feeds in canopy (partly), roosts in mid-
stratum).

Cyanomitra olivacea (feeds partly in canopy, roosts in mid-
stratum).

Dioptrornis fischeri (feeds partly in canopy, roosts edge of
forest).

I have endeavoured in the preceding notes to indicate the
distribution of the bird fauna, within certain types of environ-
ment, such as we noted them, on the Chyulu hills. In some
cases, it is difficult to assign a species to any one environment,
for the periodical variation in food supply, whether insect or
vegetable, governs the movements of the birds to a considerable
degree.

Birds are affected by climatic conditions in a marked way;
thus on a day when mist clouds were still passing over the
forests as late as noon, birds usually found hunting through the
canopy would be found on the sheltered side of the forest, at its
edges. Again, with the approach of late afternoon, before sun-
set, one often found the birds to move over to that part of the
forest edge which was in the full rays of the sun. If the weather
was very cold, one found them in the sheltered portions of the
forest.

It was my practice, just before sunset, to walk very slowly
along one of the many forest traverses in order to note the move-
ment of the birds when seeking their roosting places. One
obtained much information in this way.

SYSTEMATIC LIST

AND

TAXONOMIC NOTES,

WITH

DESCRIPTIONS OF NEW RACES.

FALCONIDAE.

GYMNOGENYS TYPICUS. Long-legged Harrier-Hawk.

Raptorial birds were remarkably scarce on the range and
this species was noted on three occasions only. Skinks of various
species were plentiful on the moorlands and on each occasion
this hawk was noted, it was on the ground eating one of these
lizards.

The single adult female obtained has enlarged ovaries.

Species identified but not obtained:

Buteo rufofuscus augur . Augur Buzzard

At Camp I a pair of Buteo rufofuscus augur were seen daily
in one of the large shallow craters uncovered by forest. They
hunted the grass lands around the camp and were often noted to
take “ mole-rats,” other rodents and a few lizards. They used
to circle out over the lower lava flows just about 4 p.m. and
invariably returned to roost in a large Cussonia tree about half
a mile from our camp site.

Falco peregrinus minor. African Peregrine.

A pair were noted on the Great Lava Flow at 4,500 feet
during the last week of June.

Falco chiqueri ruficollis. Red-naped Falcon.

On the south-western slopes of the range where there was
a deep valley between the main volcanic ridge and the western
out-lying volcanoes, a beautiful pair of these birds haunted the
small patches of crater forests. On many occasions one saw
them flying high over a patch of forest then they would turn
and divide; one bird, usually the male, would then fly low over
the trees while the hen skimmed the margin at about the level
of the tree tops and swiftly passed to the far side, then up. The
flight of the male would invariably cause some bird, usually a
Pigeon, to leave the shelter of the trees, when the hen would
then make a dive and strike. I tried hard to obtain this pair,
but they outwitted me on all occasions.

Terathopius ecaudatus. Bateleur Eagle.

A few were noted over the western plains but none actually
on the range.

Milvus migrans parasiticus. African Brown Kite.

A few were noted on the lower western lava flows, in July.

Gypaetus barbatus? African Lammergeyer.

A single bird undoubtedly of this species was twice seen
circling round the “Needle” Gneiss outcrop on the western
plains. One obtained an excellent view of the bird with
binoculars.

Aquila rapax. Tawny Eagle.

Two birds were seen flying over the face of “ Hyrax Cliff ”
on the western aspect of the northern Chyulus. I was at the
bottom of the cliff, observing a Cossypha when my attention was
drawn to a chorus of chuckling from the Rock Hyrax and look-
ing up, these birds were noted passing slowly along the cliff.

VULTURES.

Three species of Vultures, Pseudogyps africanus, Trigono -
ceps occipitalis, and Necrosyrtes monachus pileatus, were
common on the lower plains especially on the western side, and
resorted to a few tall dead trees on the west of the Great Chyulu
Forest for roosting purposes.

PHASIANIDAE.

NUMIDA MITRATA REICHENOWI. Reichenow’s Heimeted

Guineafowl.

Several nomadic flocks were encountered on the hills, but
they never stayed in any one spot for more than a couple of
days. They frequented the sides of the hills where the grass
had recently been burnt off, and the new grass was not more
than a few inches high. There was evidence in the smaller
forest patches that the floor had been thoroughly scraped over
for food. They roosted in the trees of the smaller patches of
forest. The highest elevation at which a flock was noted was
6,500 feet.

GUTTER A PUCHERANI. Blue-necked Crested Guineafowl.

This species was not met with on the range, but in many of
the lowland forest patches it must have been plentiful, judging
by the numerous scapes and dropped feathers. It was not noted
above 4,000 feet.

PTERNISTES LEUCOSCEPUS INFUSCATUS. Kilimanjaro

Bare-throated Francolin.

Several small coveys of this “ Spurfowl ” were noted on the
lower slopes of the range, but did not extend higher up than
about 4,500 feet. They were most plentiful in places where old
cultivation had been allowed to go back to bush.

I am unable to see any difference between the Chyulu birds
and those from the type locality of this race, Lake Jipe.

In view of the recently published opinion regarding this
species within Kenya and Uganda, I take this opportunity to
draw attention to an undescribed race and to discuss the races
of the species as accepted by me.

PTERNISTES LEUCOSCEPUS OLDOWAI. Subsp. Nov.

Grant and Praed have recently reviewed the races of this
species (Ibis, 1935, pp. 881-883) and recognise only two through-
out its entire distribution, Eritrea to Central Tanganyika Terri-
tory.

Doubtless many workers on East African ornithology have
been surprised at the sweeping way in which names have been
synonymised with the race infuscatus, type locality Lake Jipe.
The reason for this daring action is indicated by a statement on
page 882, that the comparative material was only sixty-four
specimens representing the species throughout its entire range.

Sclater, in Jackson’s book, would accept only one race in
Uganda and Kenya, infuscatus , thus agreeing with the opinion
of Grant as stated above. Recent correspondence with Capt.
Grant has elicited the fact that he now recognises a third race,
“ since our note appeared in the Ibis, 1935 (additional material)
clearly shows that on general characters a third race may be
recognised, i.e. muhamed-ben-abdullah, which has the widest
distribution in Uganda, and the whole of Kenya except S.W ”
He limits infuscatus to south-western Kenya and Tanganyika
Territory.

I have a limited material from the Juba River which is
topotypical mohamed-ben-ahdullah. In my notes on the species,
Birds of Kenya, Part II, 1925, Jrl. E.A. & U. Nat. Hist. Soc., I
admitted this race as extending to Marsabit. I have at the
moment no reason to alter this view, and it is for the most part
in agreement with the lately expressed views of Grant, cited
above. I still suggest the retention of takora, Stoneham, for the
birds to the west and S.W. of Rudolf. Of infuscatus, Lake Jipe
area, I have a good series, and it would appear that this race
extends northward to the highlands of Kenya. As expressed in

my previous paper op. cit. we are unable to deal satisfactorily
with the assessing of the value of named forms or races, such
as keniensis, Mearns, until much more material has been
assembled. I have already expressed the view that the material
available to Grant was insufficient to form a conclusive opinion,
and in view of the fact that Sclater utilised the same material
and came to a different opinion as to values, strengthens my
view. Nevertheless I have no hesitation in adding yet another
racial name to the species as we find it in the area of Oldowai
in Tanganyika Territory. This area appears to have been
omitted in the range of any described species, except in the
general wide distribution given for infuscatus by Grant, viz.
Tanganyika Territory as far south as the Central Railway. The
Oldowai area is to the west of the “ Highlands of the Great
Craters,” N.E. Tanganyika Territory, i.e. N.W. of Mbulu and
south of the Tanganyika Serengetti. In this region we find a
race which is described as follows:

Underside, predominant colour white with sparse triangular
chestnut marks on feathers of flanks, with greyish and chestnut
margins enclosing white triangles on the breast feathers; ashy-
brown on the crown greyer than in other races; hind-neck
equally white and ashy-brown; mantle, scapulars, and long
inner secondaries without any solid white central lines, these
being broken up into two wavy broken streaks; the secondaries,
rump, and rectrices paler ashy-grey with wavy lines and
vermiculations in whitish. The dorsum thus shows a pattern
associated with the juvenile or sub-adult stages of other races,
but here it is retained in very old birds. The secondary and
major wing-coverts are widely edged with dirty-white. The
general aspect is of a pale race with very white underside.

Type male, Oldowai, 2/12/36, Cambridge Expdt., Oldo-
wai. Dr. Leakey-Bell Coll, now in Coryndon Museum.

Paratypes, similar in colouration, six. Obtained from

several coveys in the district.

Remarks: A specimen of this race was sent to Grant, who
remarks, “ Your one bird being whiter below, less marked, is
rather aberrant.” It is not aberrant for the area cited, and is
thus described as a distinct race.

* Further correspondence with Capt. Grant has elicited the fact
that he is now prepared to recognise a further race — Kilimen-
sis, Mearns (Mr. Kilimanjaro), with a range N.W. and S.W. of
that mountain to as far as the Central Railway.

FRAN COLINUS SQUAMATUS CHYULUENSIS. Sub-sp. Nov.

Messrs. Grant and Praed have recently reviewed the races
of the squamatus group of Francolins (Ibis, 1936) and suggest
that the race schuetti is the one that ranges (so far as the area I
am now dealing with) through Uganda and western Kenya
Colony, synonymising with it dawashanus (Amala river) and
zappeyi (east shore of Lake Victoria). By “ western Kenya
Colony ” it would appear that they include the central Kenya
Highlands east of the Rift, including Mt. Kenya, thus embracing
within schuetti, the race keniensis, Mearns.

The authors do not refer to this racial name in the list of
synonyms of schuetti; neither is it mentioned in Jackson’s 44 Birds
of Kenya and Uganda, Vol. I.”

From the series available to me now, it would appear that
my suggestion in Nov. Zool., 1922, p. 27, that some of Mearn’s
names would have to be adopted is strengthened.

Where Grant and I would appear to differ is in his accep-
tance of schuetti for all birds extending through Uganda, cross-
ing the Rift and passing as far east as Mt. Kenya, I accept the
Rift as the dividing line between keniensis, Mearns, and zappeyi,
Mearns (antedating dawashanus , Madaraz). Grant would
restrict the name maranensis to the birds inhabiting Kilima-
njaro, but to me, it would have been more understandable if he
had suggested that maranensis extended north, to the Kenya
highlands east of the Rift to Mt. Kenya, for birds from Mt.
Kenya district, and the Kikuyu country are of the same brown-
ish tone above, and have more or less the same coalescing
colouration on the underside as in Kilimanjaro birds. This
distribution seems to be indicated by Moreau’s remarks on page
866, P.Z.S., 1936. This same writer directs attention to the fact
that birds from Mt. Meru, west of Kilimanjaro, are not similar
to the Kilimanjaro birds and places them as near dawashanus.
He further observes that south of Kilimanjaro, the race usam-
barae exists. I now suggest that the race on the Chyulu Range,
north-east of Kilimanjaro, is not maranensis for the reasons I
give later. Referring to the recently published work “ Birds of
Kenya and Uganda,” Jackson, edited by Sclater, 1938, we find
it stated that the race marenensis extends north to Mt. Kenya
and the highlands east of the Rift, and zappeyi, west of the Rift,
and through Uganda.

One further reference: When Granvik suggests the name
dawashanus (Rev. Zool. Bot. Afr., p. 14) as applicable to the
birds east of the Rift, he is surely in error, as the type locality
Engare Da wash (Amala River) is west of the Rift.

Description of the Chyulu Race.

Nearest geographically to the race maranensis , Mearns, of
Kilimanjaro, the Chyulu birds are very much darker above, less
brown tinged, the centres of the mantle feathers and wing
coverts being almost black with the lateral margins faintly grey-
ish. This race is more blackish than any of the Kenya forms. On
the underside the centres of the feathers are very dark brown-
black contrasting very strongly with the marginal whitish; the
dark central area is carried quite a long way up the central rib.
The upper breast is very dark, due to a widening out of the
central blackish area; the neck colouring is equally black and
white, this speckling being carried up to the cheeks and lores;
the throat is white. There is a superficial resemblance between
this race and birds from the Amala-Sotik-Mau area, but the
latter are not nearly so dark above. They are distinct from the
race usambarae with which I have compared them. When seen
in the field, they give one the impression of an almost black
bird with black and white necks and underside. Thirteen
specimens of this new race were taken on the Chyulu Range at
altitudes of 5,500-7,000 feet.

Type, male, Chyulu Mts. 6,500 feet, 16/7/38. Coryndon
Museum Expedition, 1938. Distribution: Limited to the Chyulu
Range. Examples of this new race were submitted to Capt.
Grant, who writes as follows: “Your pair of F. squamatus are
unquestionably a new race and from an area where, I believe,
F. squamatus has not been recorded.

The races and distributions of F. squamatus within Kenya
and Uganda and immediate neighbourhood which I uphold are
as follows: —

F. s. maranensis, Mearns, Kilimanjaro (type locality Maran-
gu on Kilimanjaro).

F. s. usambarae, Con., Usambara Mts. (type locality Ma-
gambe, Usambara).

F. s. chyuluensis, van. Som., Chyulu Range (type locality,
upper zone of that range).

F. s. zappeyi, Mearns, Amala-Sotik-Mau, to Kaimosi, Kaka-
mega (type locality, east shore Lake Victoria). With
this I unite dawashanus , Mad. Amala River, antedated
by zappeyi. It is unfortunate that no more exact
locality than “ east shore ” was given.

F. s. keniensis, Mearns, Mt. Kenya, Fort Hall, Kikuyu,
Nairobi, and Aberdares (type locality, Mt, Kenya).

F. s. schuetti, Cab., Uganda, east to Mt. Elgon and north
Kavirondo, meeting with zappeyi here.

FRANCOLINU S AFRICANUS MACARTHURI, van Som.

Chyulu Grey-wing Francolin.

The species F. africanus has hitherto been recorded in Kenya
as represented by one race, uluensis. During the course of an
ecological survey of the isolated Chyulu Range, by the staff of
the Coryndon Museum, Nairobi, a series of this Francolin was
obtained. When the first specimens were shot, it was at once
noticed that they differed from examples of this species from
the mid-Kenya savannah and parklands, and a series was
obtained to test the constancy of this difference.

The original description has appeared in the B.B.O.C., VoL
LIX, Nov., 1938. Typical examples of this race are to be found
only on the range which is in effect an “ inselberg ” rising to
7,200 feet from the surrounding plains of 2,000-3,000 feet. They
were found only on the moorland zones at 5,500-7,000 feet and
represent a dark montane race. They were met with in pairs
or small coveys of 4 — 5, and lie very close, allowing one to
approach to within a yard or so before they would get up and
disappear in several directions. Their presence was usually
made known by their distinctive call— uttered shortly after sum
rise or late in the evening.

Description:

A race of F. africanus, geographically nearest to uluensis of
the mid-Kenya savannah and parkland (type locality Machakos),
but differing from this in being generally darker above, the
dark centres to the feathers of the crown, the spotting of the
neck, the dark areas to the mantle feathers, scapulars and
secondaries being black, instead of blackish-brown; the dark
markings and cross-bars below, which are carried on to the
abdomen and under-tail coverts, are black; the chestnut of the
breast and flanks is darker. The wing-coverts are greyer and
more distinctly barred. The black spotting of the neck is more
distinct and plentiful and in some of the females the spots
extend up toward the chin, as in the race psilolaemus of Shoa.

The race uluensis has been recorded from Taveta, and in the
Tanganyika Serengeti. I have no specimens from the former
and an examination of these birds should be made to ascertain
to what degree they approach this montane form. The birds
from Apis Rock to the west of the “ Highland of the Great
Craters ” and just northward, at Pussumuru toward the Kenya-
Tanganyika border, are not typical uluensis and exhibit charac-
ters which approach the Chyulu birds, especially on the under-
side.

FRANCOLINUS SEPHANAE nr. GRANT! Red-legged Bush

Francolin.

The Red-legged Bush Francolin was scarce on the hills and
as a result an insufficient number were obtained to make any
satisfactory comparison.

Such birds as were noted were always below the 5,000 feet
level, in the scattered bush country on the lower lava flows.

RALLIDAE. Sarothrura.

SAROTHRURA ELEGANS ? LORINGI. Buff-spotted Pigmy

Crake.

As was to be expected, Rails and Crakes were almost entirely
absent from the range. There is no free water in the whole
thirty miles of their length (apart from water held up in hollow
trees and dew), indeed the only water is at the one small drip
toward the north end. Nevertheless one knows that certain of
the small crakes of the genus Sarothrura are not infrequently
met with in rank grass where no free water exists. We were
thus fortunate in obtaining a single male of the elegans group in
the “ Mbuga ” near the Great Chyulu Forest. With the excep-
tion of Sarothrura pulchra centralis , which is almost entirely a
forest bird, these crakes are exceedingly difficult to secure. One
may flush them unexpectedly and after a very short flight they
drop and simply disappear. One may hunt for hours ip. the
vicinity where they have pitched and one won’t find them again.
A dog is occasionally successful in flushing them a second time.
If one is aware of their presence in a given stretch of grass land
or forest it is best to secure them with snares set in artificial runs
made in several directions.

Taxonomic Notes on SAROTHRURA CRAKES.

Praed and Grant made a survey of the Sarothrura Crakes
and published their results in the Ibis , 1937. The elegans group
dealt with on page 632 is divided into two races, the nominate
from Durban, and reichenovi of Cameroons. All other described
races are synonymised with the nominate form. In lit dated
8/9/38, Grant now informs me “that reichenovi is a synonym”
of elegans; in other words there is only one race throughout the
range of the species in Africa. (The authors claim the same for
S . rufa; one race throughout Africa.)

Are the birds then migratory, or do they merely move from
one feeding ground to another (if associated with temporary
water pans, as these dry up)? What are the habitats of the
various species? Published data is meagre.

In the summary, the authors suggest that the species have
a much wider range and distribution than was at one time sup-
posed and that some, or all of them, are subject to local migra-
tion. It would have been of great utility in demonstrating these
two points if they had tabulated the localities from which each
species or supposed races had been obtained, the time of year
when the birds had been taken, and further the general environ-
ment and altitude of each. To emphasise these points I append
such information as I have, from material at my immediate dis-
posal, and published records applicable to Kenya and Uganda.
I have adopted the general classification advocated by Praed and
Grant, though I do not thereby necessarily agree with their
opinions regarding races.

I should like to record here that the specimen of elegans
obtained on the Chyulu Range is jet-black in ground colour on
the upperside and flanks; the buff spotting is not so large as in
Uganda and Kaimosi birds. Wings 85 mm. If we accept the
views of the authors, then languens, Friedmann, from Tanga-
nyika; loringi, Mearns, from Mt. Kenya; reichenovi, Sharpe, from
Cameroons; buryi Og. Grant, British Somaliland, all become
synonyms of the nominate South African race elegans of
Durban.

I am not aware as to how the authors interpret the expres-
sion “ local migration ” as used on page 633, but if by this they
merely mean a local movement from one feeding ground to
another as suitable swamps dry up (presuming the species has
this kind of habitat) then I am prepared to support the sugges-
tion of movement. If, on the other hand, it is a movement
within Africa for breeding purposes, then my data will supply
a little information on the point.

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COLUMBIDAE.

COLUMBA ARQUATRIX ARQUATRIX. Speckled Forest

Pigeon.

Throughout the whole of our stay on the Chyulu Range, ex-
tending over a period of nearly four months, these birds were
present in hundreds. It was not that they were congregated in
large flocks in any one patch of forest, but more or less evenly
distributed. At each of our principal camps several pairs were
noted to have a more or less set daily routine. They were one
of the first birds to bestir themselves at dawn. Their distinctive
call could be heard just as the first streaks of daylight showed
above the horizon. By 7-30 a.m. they had gathered together and
as a flock they flew down the slopes of the hill to an old cedar
tree above the water drip. If no one was about they dropped
down to the water in twos and threes, then back to the tree until
all had drunk their fill. A brief rest, and the flock flew back to
the forest and then split up. This flight was again repeated
between 5-30 and 6 p.m. At Camp 3 (when our water supply
was very low indeed, and water had to be carried about 15 miles),
by observing the regular line of flight of these birds to a certain
patch of forest some 2,000 feet below the camp, we were able to
locate a small collection of water of roughly 20 gallons in an old
Cussonia tree. It was one of the features of early morning to
watch these birds and hear the swish of their wings as they took
the downward slope at a terrific speed. They appeared to liter-
ally hurl themselves from the treetops and down the steep slope.
Their “ braking power ” was a sight well worth observation.
Examination of stomachs showed that they fed largely on the
small fruits of Rapania and Cornus and also Trema , obtained
from the upper, hill forests, and on olives which could only be
from the lower plains forests on the lava flows at 3,500-4,000 feet.

In the twelve birds obtained, there is considerable variation
in the amount of white spotting and in the degree of greyness
to white on the occiput.

STREPTOPELIA SEMITORQUATA SEMITORQUATA

> MINOR. Grey-vented Dove.

This species was only met with at the northern end where
numbers were seen in the vicinity of the old cultivations; a few
frequented recently burnt land at 5,600 feet. A young bird
newly from the nest was obtained on May 18th.

TYMPANISTRIA TYMPANISTRIA FRASERI. White-breasted

Forest Dove.

A few examples of this species were noted in the underbush
of the forests, but the majority frequented the drier patches of

the smaller forest clumps, 5,600 feet, but the species was more
plentiful in the old cultivations where bush growth had grown
up into an impenetrable mass.

APLOPELIA LARVATA ? KILIMENSIS. Cinnamon-breasted

Dove.

This species was abundant in the Great Chyulu forest and
to a lesser degree in the forests of the central portion of the
range. One noted several of them in a day’s tramp through the
forest, but after traverses had been cut in various directions they
were much more observable. Thus of an evening as one walked
along a mile stretch of forest path, at least a dozen pairs could
be put up along the clearing. In no other forest in Kenya have
I found the species so common. It is for the most part terrestrial
and on being hushed will hy up into the mid-strata to drop again
when one had either passed on or remained quiet.

The floor of the Chyulu forests is eminently suitable to these
birds, for they appear to favour ground which is damp and
covered with a thick layer of leaf-mould. It is in such surround-
ings that their chief food abounds; small mollusca and coleop-
terous larvae, wood lice, etc. They also eat a certain amount
of small berries which are taken from the ground. Another
type of food frequently recovered from the stomachs was a small
bulbous root which I have been unable to identify. In captivity
these Doves will take small grain, but to, keep them in condition
one has to supplement this with grated cheese and mashed hard-
boiled egg.

The breeding season was well over by the end of April, and
such young birds as were noted were unattended by their
parents.

Taxonomic Note: I have placed the Chyulu birds with a
query as the race kilimensis, Neumann. Although this name
has been synonymised with that of the nominate race, all the
Chyulu birds, some 16 in number are very much darker than
any material from the Kenya highlands : 12 skins. It is possible
of course that the Kilimanjaro bird may differ from Chyulu ones,
and that the former may agree with the nominate race, but a
series from Kilimanjaro would have to be compared before this
point can be decided. Wings 145-155 mm.

VINAGO CALVA BREVICERA. Green Fruit Pigeon.

Fairly numerous in those forests where a small fruited
parasite Ficus was in bearing. They were more often heard
than seen. Two Kilimanjaro birds have quite a wash of green
on the tail suggestive of possible intergrades with wakefieldi,
and all the Chyulu birds have a wash of greenish on the outer
edges of the rectrices.

MUSOPHAGIDAE.

TURACUS HARTLAUBI HARTLAUBI. Hartlaub’s Blue-

crested Plantain-Eater.

A very common species in all the larger forests on the Range,
particularly the southern end; in the north, one occasionally
heard it, but the forests in this area are rather small and contain
very few fruit-bearing trees. On the evidence of a long series
from the Chyulus and Kilimanjaro, it would appear that medius,
Mearns, holds good for birds east of the Rift, from Machakos
northward; the Chyulu birds belong to the nominate race.

MEROPIDAE.

MELITTOPHAGBS PUSILLUS CYANOSTICTUS.

Kenya Blue-eyebrowed Bee-Eater
All along the lower lava flows this species was noted in
small flocks or companies; two pairs were observed at the edge
of the great forest at 7,000 feet, but the bulk of the birds did not
range above 6,000 feet. Several tunnels in which the birds had
evidently nested recently were noted near the water drip at
Camp 1 and a few more were noted on the western side in an
eroded donga.

MEROPS APIASTER. European Bee-Eater.

Large flocks of these birds were noted as passing over the
Range at Camp 1, moving in a northerly direction (3rd week of
April) at about 4 p.m.

ALCEDINIDAE.

HALCYON CHELICUTI CHELICUTI. Striped Kingfisher.

A few Kingfishers were noted on the hillsides at between
4,000-5,000 feet. They spent most of the time hunting from
the tops of the Erythrina trees, dropping down on grasshoppers
and other insects in the grass below. One bird was seen catch-
ing a small red-bellied skink and swallowing it.

CUCULIDAE.

CEUTHMOCHARES AEREUS AUSTRALIS. Green yellow-
billed Caucal.

A single specimen of this race was recovered at 4,000 feet on
the eastern side of the range. No others were seen or heard.

LAMPROMORPHA KLAASL White-bellied Emerald Cuckoo.

Cuckoos were poorly represented on the Chyulu Range.
This species was seen on many occasions in the more open
forest patches, and one young bird was heard as it was being fed
by a Yellow-vented Bulbul. There is not the slightest doubt
that on occasion, adults of Klaas’ cuckoo will feed the young of
their own species. I have noted this twice, and the same has
been seen by my son, and furthermore has been also noted by
Moreau.

CHRYSOCOCCYX CUPREUS CUPREU8. Yellow-bellied

Emerald Cuckoo.

No specimens were obtained but the species was heard on
more than one occasion during April-July. I should like to take
this opportunity of recording the fact that a young of this species
was reared in the grounds of the Museum this year, by a pair of
Pycnonotus t. fayi and fed almost exclusively on the berries of
Erythrococca rigidifolia.

I had the birds under observation throughout the day from
6 a.m. to 6 p.m. for several days and practically no insects were
taken.

CENTROPUS SUPERCILIOSUS FUR YUS. Hackled-neck

Caucal.

Common in the grasslands and bush of the lower levels.
Seven specimens were obtained; none have wing measurements
over 155 mm.; the majority are 153 mm. I am satisfied that the
coastal birds and those of the immediate hinterland are smaller
than highland and Uganda birds, and therefore retain the name
furvus. This is contrary to the views expressed in Jackson’s
Birds of Kenya

TROGONIDAE.

APALODERMA NARINA NARINA > LITTORALIS.

Chyulu Trogon.

It was surprising to me to find that this species was not met
with in any of the high forests except that of the southern end,
in the Great Chyulu Forest, 6,000-7,200 feet. Even here it was
very scarce for during a two months’ collecting in the area, only
some half dozen birds were noted. On the other hand, I had
noted several pairs in the low mixed forest at 3,500 feet between
Noka and the lower lava flows on the Italweni track.

I examined the stomach contents of the birds procured and
found them to consist of several species of insects such as

Coccinellid beetles, Pentatomid and Coreid bugs, Ichneumon
flies, Diptera, and what interested me most of all, two almost
full-grown larvae of Charaxes fulvescens acuminatus ; of these
one was intact, the other was identified by the complete head-
mask.

I have placed these birds as intermediate between the small
coastal race and the inland highland form. Two males have
wings of 127 mm., one sub-adult male 129 mm.

BUCEROTIDAE.

LOPHOCEROS MELANOLEUCOS SUAHELICUS.

Red-billed Pied Hornbill.

Hornbills of all species were extremely scarce on the range,
thus during the three months only one specimen of suahelicus
was seen and obtained. It was in a small valley forest at 6,000
feet. The species was extremely plentiful in the savannah
forests on the plains at 3,500 feet.

In the Great Chyulu Forest a small flock of BYCANISTES
CRISTATUS was heard and located but no specimens were
obtained as the position they took up was at that time without
a traverse, and it was impossible to come up to the birds.

CAPRIMULGIDAE.

CAPRIMULGUS POLIOCEPHALUS PALMQUISTI.

Kilimanjaro White-tail Nightjar.

Here and there where there were slight exposures of lava
in the grass lands of the hill sides, one would put up these Night-
jars during the day. At dusk, many flew around the camp fire
and caught up insects as they were disturbed by movements of
the “ boys ” through the grass and bush. I noted only this one
species, and they were most in evidence at the southern end of
the range, but were by no means plentiful. One occasionally
heard them “ churring ” but as the breeding season was over
they were on the whole silent.

I am satisfied as to the distinctness of these birds when
compared with the race of the north-central Kenya highlands.

MICROPIDAE.

MICROPUS AEQUATORIALIS. Kilimanjaro Giant Swift.

Although not actually shot on the Chyulu range, these birds
were noted to pass over in large flocks at about 9 a.m. from the
direction of Kilimanjaro. I obtained the series now under con-
sideration at an artificial dam on the Masongoleni-Noka-Italweni
track.

When we first visited this water we noted hundreds of these
birds circling overhead and after a time they came in bunches
swooping down to the surface of the water, just touching it, then
wheeling around would repeat the manoeuvre several times and
then make off over the wooded plains. The time was then about
10 a.m. On our first visit I had no gun and returned to the spot
next day, arriving about 9 a.m. No birds were in evidence except
M. affinis. By 10 a.m., the first batch of birds arrived and wheeled
around the dam at about 200 feet. They did not start to fly over
the water until their numbers had been considerably increased,
and then one heard an intermittent swish of wings as batch by
batch they swooped down the valley, touching the water at about
its mid-line and rising parallel to the dam face they wheeled
about at a terrific pace. For many minutes I sat and enjoyed
the wonderful sight of these master fliers at exercise and taking
water. In about half an hour hundreds of birds were taking
part in the flight. One heard a constant “ fruuu ” as, in dozens,
they touched water. On the previous day we had noted a few
M. melba , but on the second day none were in evidence, although
I waited for more than two hours for their arrival.

Taxonomic Note: Several races of these giant Swifts have
been described and in nearly every case doubt has been ex-
pressed as to their validity. Six specimens from Naivasha-
Nakuru -Nairobi area are uniform ashy-brown from crown to
rump with a slight greenish wash on the mantle; the undersides
vary as to the degree of dark and white mottling. The five
Chyulu-Noka birds are very much darker with a strong greeny-
black gloss from crown to rump; the undersides are darker,
whilst the throats are whiter. These birds have smaller wings :
186-198 mm. as against the former 205-208 mm.

HIRUNDINIDAE.

HXRUNDO RUSTICA RUSTICA. European Swallow.

During the first part of our stay on the range, these Swallows
were numerous for a few days. The last birds were noted on
the evening of April 25th. Only two specimens were shot; one
has the underside strongly washed with pink-buff and might pass
as the race transitiva , the other is almost white below.

PSALIDOPROCNE ALBICEPS. White-headed Sand-Martin.

A few pairs of this little Martin were resident at the north
end of the range and were nesting during April-May. One pair
had built in the bank above the “ water drip.” One could see
the beard-lichen nest at the end of a short tunnel of eight inches,

by means of reflected light. Two fresh eggs were noted.
Another nest constructed in a slight wash-out in a bank con-
tained two young.

The birds were exceedingly tame and flew in and out of their
nest hole while the porters were actually drawing water a few
feet away.

The female of this nest was caught on the nest by a porter
and brought into camp, much to my annoyance, so I took the bird
back and released it; within a very short time she had recovered
sufficiently from her fright to return to the nest. Strict orders
were given that she was to be left alone. Unfortunately, she was
shot two weeks after by a new arrival in camp.

UPUPIDAE.

UPUPA AFRICANA. African Hoopoe.

A somewhat rare bird on the range, but plentiful in the
plains country below. Two pairs were noted at the 4,000-5,000
foot level amongst the bush and Erythrina on the lower lava
slopes. They were not noted at the southern end of the hills.

PHOENICULIDAE.

RHINOPOMASTUS CYANOMELAS SCHALOWI.

East African Scimitar-bill Hoopoe.

Toward the north and central portions of the hills one noted
these birds on the lower levels at 4,000-5,000 feet on both eastern
and western slopes. They were seen in pairs or small flocks
hunting over the lichen-clad branches of the Erythrina trees.

STRIGIDAE.

TYTO ALBA AFFINIS. African Barn Owl.

At night one heard the unmistakable call of the Barn Owl
from the forest behind the camp, but it was some considerable
time before specimens were obtained. One occasionally saw
them flying silently past the tents just after dark but it was not
until we reached Camp 2 that any attempt was made to procure
specimens. At this camp we found them common and, whereas
rodents had been rather scarce at the north end, here we found
them to be numerous, and owls correspondingly plentiful. At
Camp 3 they were more numerous still and numbers could have
been obtained had we wished. The Chyulu birds are very
strongly grey above, more so than any of the 20 odd with which
I have compared them.

There is some variation on the lower surface; two are pure
white with small blackish spots; another is buffy below with a
tendency to barring on the flanks.

STRIX WOODFORDII NIGRICANTIA. Brown Forest Owl.

The distinctive call of this bird was a feature of the early
night at Camp 3, and to a lesser degree at Camp 2. It was
neither seen nor heard at Camp 1. The variation in the
plumage of these birds has led to the description of several
races. There are two phases in the adult plumage as I have
proved in captive birds kept under observation for three years
on end; one is a brown dress, the other almost black on the
mantle. These are not related to sex. Nestlings kept under
close scrutiny have taken 18 months to reach a definite inter-
mediate or sub-adult plumage; the full mature plumage is not
assumed until two years old. The stomach contents show
small rodents and shrews, beetles, long-antennaed grasshoppers
(Tettigoniidae). These last move about at night, and if Moreau’s
birds took this group of grasshoppers, it does not follow that
they were taken during the hours of daylight (Cf. P.Z.S., 1936,
p. 870).

In addition to the two Owls mentioned above, Grass Owls,
Asio helvola were not infrequently flushed.

CAPITONIDAE.

POGONIULU S PUSILLUS AFFINIS. Red-fronted Pigmy

Barbet.

Wherever there were clumps of Erythrina surrounded by
bush, as on the lower lava flows, this little Barbet was invariably
present. They are most active during the morning and toward
the latter part of the afternoon. Their food consists almost
entirely of insects, but odd berries are also taken. One may
meet with them in pairs or singly, and when engaged in hunt-
ing for food their actions are restless. Watching a bird forag-
ing for food shows that a very methodical method is adopted.
As a bird enters the one side of a clump of bush it scans all the
branches around with a rapid rather jerky movement of the
head; hopping amongst the twigs it picks an insect off here and
there, and in a very short time it has scoured the entire clump,
having gradually worked its way to the far side in so doing. It
then flies off to the next clump and repeats the same tactics.
During the heat of the day one may just by chance catch a sight
of a bird as it sits in some shady spot either motionless or
preening itself. At such a time I have noted a bird to sit
stationary for more than two hours on end. The nesting hole
has a very small opening, just large enough for the bird to
squeeze its way in; the tunnel descends almost vertically for
about three inches and ends in a chamber of roughly 2J inches
across. As in the case of other Barbets, these birds use their

nesting holes for sleeping quarters. Two of these nests were
found in stumps of Cussonia in small patches of forest.

Taxonomic Note.

The type locality of the race affinis is Kipini on the Tana
River from whence I have topotypical material. Its distribu-
tion covers practically the whole of the dry thorn-bush country
of Kenya, westward into Tanganyika. It is fairly constant in
its type of plumage throughout its range but shows a tendency
to darkening on the lower surface as it goes westward, more
particularly in the region of the Mara River in the northern
portion of the Masai country; and in the reverse direction,
toward the Juba River, it becomes paler and smaller. These
Juba River birds I have separated under the name lollesheid, for
the above mentioned reasons. None from the Juba River have
wing measurements over 50, with a minimum of 46 mm. The
western birds run from 53-58 mm. Claude Grant, B.B.O.C., Vol.
Iviii, p. 141, does not accept the validity of the Juba race, but
in this I think he is in error if we are to accept the 75% conven-
tion as a basis. He admits, in this same Journal, p. 119, that the
birds of the Juba area run small. Vide his remarks regarding
Ind. minor.

One difficulty is that the type of affinis came from an inter-
mediate locality between the small Juba birds and the larger
darker south and western Kenya birds; nevertheless my birds
from Kipini are large having wings of 58 mm.

Two birds from the Chyulu range have orange red at the
base of the rump, a character on which the race uropygialis was
founded.

TRICHOLAEMA LACRYMOSUM LACRYMOSUM.

Spotted-flank Barbet.

This was the common Barbet of the Erythrina bush and the
donga or valley forests, and was encountered from 4,000 to 6,000
feet. Occasionally it was found in the smaller forest patches
and along the edges of the larger forests. Several of their nest
and sleeping holes were located, and these were invariably quite
low down, not more than six feet, often as low as three, in the
trunk of some dead, or partially dead tree. I have recorded the
call note as “ quek ” repeated several times in succession, but on
the whole I found it a rather silent bird.

At our Noka camp, on the way to the southern end of the
range, a solitary bird was found excavating a hole in an inclined
tree trunk just at the back of our tent. The presence of human

beings in close proximity did not appear to worry the bird, for
it continued its laborious task throughout the afternoon until
almost dusk. When I examined the half-finished hole by
electric torch at about 9 p.m. the bird was in occupation. This
species takes insects as well as fruits, and quite a number of
stomachs examined contained termites which had been secured
by opening up the earth-works on trees.

The breeding season was over by mid-April, and numbers
of young in first plumage were noted and secured. In the series
of 20 odd birds obtained, eight are young of the season just over.
There is no great difference in the plumage compared to that of
the adults. Young birds have the median wing-coverts edged
with yellowish-green; these in the adult male are somewhat
pointed and have a yellowish tip only.

VIRIDIBU CCO LEUCOMYSTAX CHYULU. Subsp. Nov.

White Moustached Pigmy Olive Barbet.

These little Barbets were only met with in the forests at
altitudes of 5,600 and 7,000 feet. They were observed in the
canopy of the trees and again in the tops of the trees at the edges
of the crater forests. The birds met with on the Chyulu range
were silent, possibly because the nesting season was well over
(April), but in other places I have heard them utter a semi-
metallic note which is repeated rapidly.

Taxonomic Note. — Among the specimens of this species from
the Chyulu Range are four adults which I have compared with
a series from Sotik (type locality of leucomystax), Mau, Nairobi,
Meru (Kenya), Elgon, also four from Kilimanjaro.

The Chyulu bird is purer green on the head and mantle and
wing edges; they are also more strongly washed with green, less
greyish on the underside, whilst the throat is darker, and the
abdomen lacks the buffy tone found in typical birds. In the
series of 18 birds from the Kenya highlands I cannot match the
Chyulu birds and consider them to be a recognisable race.

The type is a male, 14/6/38, Chyulu Mts., 6,000 feet. Coryn-
don Museum Expedition, 1938. Paratypes three. Wings 56-58
mm. In nominate race 53-58 mm.

I treat this bird as a species distinct from simplex for both
occur over part of their distribution and appear not to inter-
breed. I unite with the nominate race, specimens from
Kilimanjaro.

LYBIUS LEUCOCEPHALUS SENEX. White-headed

White-bellied Barbet.

This White-headed Barbet was not uncommon, and numbers
were seen and heard on the lower slopes in the vicinity of the
old Wakamba plantations. All round these old cultivations
were many wild figs, and on these we found the birds to be
feeding in numbers. They were also noted as feeding on the
ripening bananas.

Several nesting and sleeping holes were noted in the dead
branches of the fig trees. As with many pther species of Barbets,
this bird will make use of old nesting holes for sleeping quarters,
and it is no uncommon thing to find, by closing up a nest hole
with a butterfly net and then disturbing the roosting birds, that
very often half a dozen birds will emerge one after the other.
On one occasion I trapped no less than eleven birds from one
sleeping hole. Through several seasons this bird has nested in
the Museum grounds and on each occasion I have noted that up
to four adults will attend the young in one nest-hole. It has
been impossible to ascertain whether more than one female has
laid eggs in the one nest, or whether the male is polygamous.
I doubt if the latter is so, for on many occasions I have found
nests at which only one pair were in occupation throughout the
whole period. These birds are very noisy and keep up a con-
tinuous chatter.

Taxonomic Note.

It is of interest to note that the race found on the Chyulu
Range is senex, whereas, as has been often recorded, albicauda
is the race found on Kilimanjaro and at Taveta, just south-east.

This has led me to examine the whole series of White-headed
Barbets in the Museum, and to map out the distribution of each
as shown by this material and published records. In my paper
published in Nov. Zool., 1922, I placed senex as a race of
albicauda and stated my reasons for so doing. Sclater treats
them as species in the “ Systema,” but places senex as a race of
albicauda in the recently published Jackson’s Birds of Kenya and
Uganda, 1938. From the extensive material now before me it is
suggestive that both senex and albicauda are geographical repre-
sentatives of leucocephalus.

We have evidence in the young of senex to indicate its affini-
ties with albicauda , in that the white scapular patch of the adults
is only represented by a few white-centred and white-tipped
feathers; that the abdomen is strongly greyish or blackish with
white central streaks and tips such as we find in the adults of

both alhicauda and leucocephalus ; and in many of the young birds
the tails are either entirely or strongly blackish, in fact some of
the old birds have black feathers amongst the rectrices.

If we examine the young of alhicauda we find the same thing,
viz. that in many the rectrices are entirely or partly black as in
leucocephalus . And as we know, the scheme of colouration in
alhicauda is similar to that of leucocephalus , except that in the
latter the tail is black. Nevertheless, some Uganda leucocephalus
have white feathers in the tail. It is suggestive that we are in
reality dealing with one species of which the race leucocephalus
is the recessive or parental type, with the other two as recent
developments, which, in the young in many instances, exhibit
reversion to type, which evidence is eliminated as maturity is
reached. Such a state of affairs is not without parallel.

Examining now the known distribution of the three, leuco-
cephalus, alhicauda, and senex, we find that this conforms to the
suggestion of a common ancestry for the three. We find that
leucocephalus ranges through Uganda, east to Elgon and north
Kavirondo; that alhicauda extends from South Kavirondo,
through the Mara and Narok, the north and north-eastern
portions of Tanganyika to west of Kilimanjaro and through the
Pare gap to Taveta; we find that senex ranges from the north and
north-east of Mt. Kenya, through the Kikuyu highlands to Ukam-
bani and the south Masai to the Chyulu Range. There is thus
a possible contact between the black-bellied leucocephalus, and
the less black-bellied alhicauda, and the latter with the white (in
maturity) bellied senex. I cannot find evidence of overlap of
any two, with full maintenance of characteristics of each in the
area of overlap. To what extent leucogaster and one or two
others may come into this “ circle ” I cannot suggest for want of
comparative material. It is a point worth investigating.

For the time being, I would suggest that as leucocephalus is
the oldest name, it should be applied as the nominate race of the
three geographical races. As regards the name usukumae,
Neum., we find that Granvik, Jrl. f. Ornith., 1923, p. 87, uses it for
birds from Kendu Bay, Kavirondo, and as a race of leucocephalus.
Friedmann, in referring to this, suggests that Granvik is wrong
in assuming usukamae to be a race of leucocephalus. I suggest
that Granvik was right, in that I consider the latter to be the
nominate race, as indicated above. I further suggest that
usukumae is the intermediate between leucocephalus and alhi-
cauda, but I am not satisfied that the name can be upheld on the
grounds that it does really represent an intermediate aggregate
occupying a definite area between two recognisable races, leuco-
cephalus and alhicauda.

Again as regards the name abbotti, Richmond, Taveta, I am
inclined to suggest that this is an intermediate between senex
and albicauda. If we refer to Sclater in the “ Systema ” we find
he suggests that both abbotti and usukumae should be synony-
mised with albicauda. Again, Friedmann, op. cit., says
definitely they are synonyms. Claude Grant, Ibis , 1915, p. 438,
suggested that leucocephalus will prove to be an immature dress
of senex. Doubtless he has altered his views since.

Stated briefly, my conclusions are based on the following:

L. leucocephalus: Adults and young are blackish on back and
abdomen with white flecking; tails black (occasionally with some
white). This I take to be the ancestral race.

L. leucocephalus albicauda: Adults and young somewhat as
in L. leucocephalus leucocephalus , but not so black, but with
white flecks on abdomen, wing coverts, and inner secondaries;
tails white, but often with base of central feathers black, or with
two or three black feathers, or, in young birds mostly black with
triangular white at tips. This I interpret as a reversion to
ancestral type. Such young are shot with adults of normal
albicauda plumage. The black bases to the rectrices is the main
character of the newly described race leucocephalus lynesi.

L. leucocephalus senex: Adults without black or just a few
black feathers on the abdomen; mantles black with variable
degree of white on the scapular region, usually more white in
very old birds (this is contrary to Granvik’s views, q.v. op. cit., as
my series of 11 very old birds have more white than the young
and only three have reduced white on the scapulars). Tails
usually white, but some with black feathers in the rectrices.
On the other hand, the young have blackish tails entirely or
partly, and the abdomen is strongly or slightly blackish, and the
scapulars and inner secondaries flecked with white, and some
have small white central flecks to the tips of the coverts. Again
a reversion to ancestral type. Furthermore, one adult has white
triangular tips to the inner secondaries and inner greater coverts;
further evidence of reversion.

And last of all we have evidence of intermediates in the two
supposed races usukumae and abbotti.

It is to be noted that the Chyulu birds are blacker than birds
from the surrounding plains around the type locality of senex.

Since writing the above independent observations, my atten-
tion has been drawn by Moreau to the paper by Admiral Lynes
in Jrl. f. Ornith., 1934, on pages 64 and 65 of which he expresses
the view that all are geographical representatives of one (leuco-
cephalus) species. In the Editorial footnote, attention is drawn
to a paper by Stresemann and Grote, Internat. Kongress, Kopen-

1. Lybius leucocephalus leucocephalus.

2. „ „ albicauda.

3. „ ,, senex.

4. ,, ,, usukumae.

hagen, 1926. In acknowledging these prior conclusions, I should
like to state that they coincide with my views to a marked
degree.

BUCCANODON LEBCOTXS KILIMENSIS. Pied Barbet,

The Pied Barbet was a plentiful species in those parts of the
range where fruiting trees, especially figs, were common. In
practically all cases, the stomachs examined showed that Jig was
the most sought-after fruit; this was followed by Rapania and
Sapium. At certain spots one could count as many as fifty
individuals, all busy eating the fruit and chattering continuously.
Bowen has suggested that this species utters a call note like
“ ho-ho-ho-” answered by a high-pitched “ ha ” probably by the
female (quoted in Jackson’s Birds of Kenya), but this was cer-
tainly not my experience, and I had the opportunity of listening
to hundreds of them, nor is it Moreau’s (in. lit.). In my notes I
have likened the call to a frequently repeated “ ka-ka-ka-” with
an occasional “ kak ” or “ kark ” rather long-drawn, or as Moreau
puts it, “ a squawk.” I have elsewhere referred to the likeness
of these birds to Pholia femoralis, Abbott’s Starling, when seen
at a distance at the top of a tree, without the aid of glasses. These
birds are entirely confined to the forest, and although Moreau
does not record it above 6,000 feet, we often met with it at 7,000
on the Chyulu range.

Taxonomic Note.

In dealing with the very long series of this species from the
Chyulu hills, I have taken the opportunity of looking up the
references to the race kenyae, Bowen.

Sclater, in Jackson’s Birds, merely directs attention to it and
states that there are no specimens from Kenya in the British
Museum. Grant and Praed, lviii, 1938, p. 140, are

satisfied “ that the characters given by Bowen do not hold good,”
and make kenyae a synonym of kilimensis. In 1923, I obtained
a series from Mt. Kenya, Mau, Embu, Meru, Nanyuki. The
former I found to differ from kilimensis and submitted them to
Dr. Hartert, who replied that some specimens of kilimensis had
dark rumps. I refrained from separating the Kenya birds.
Bowen did so in 1930, using as one of his characters the dark
rump. I stated in Nov . Zool., 1932, that I was prepared to accept
the race on the usual 75% convention. I now have before me
70 odd specimens from Kilimanjaro and the Chyulu Range. Only
three out of the total have the rump dark, the others being white
with a very narrow, if any, dark streak. One of the characters
which distinguish kilimensis from nominate leucotis is the white
rump.

Although I published my remarks on the Kenya race in
1932, Sclater does not include the localities given, in the Jackson
“ Birds of Kenya.”

The Chyulu material is constantly blacker, especially on the
back, and sides on the lower surface and flanks than Kilimanjaro
birds. Furthermore, the birds from the low forests at Ganda
north of Shimoni, 1,000 feet, are strongly brown, not blackish, on
these areas (12 examples), but as these were all taken in one
month, I await further material to ascertain if this colouration is
constant. This species has been recorded from Nairobi, but
although I have collected in this locality for the past twenty odd
years I have never seen or heard the bird in that area.

A point to be noted is that the young in first plumage has
the sides and the breast, black without any blue glossing.

PICIDAE.

DENDROPICOS FUSCESCENS CHYULU, subsp. nov.

Chyulu Little Barred Woodpecker.

These Woodpeckers were quite numerous along the edges of
the forest from 4,500-7,000 feet. One family party of four occu-
pied a hole in a dead Cussonia at the back of Camp 1. At Camp
3 they were frequently noticed searching the flowering spikes of
the Giant Lobelia from which they obtained numbers of spiders.
Stomach contents showed that they fed also on beetle larvae,
ants, and termites.

Taxonomic Note.

The increasing evidence and accumulation of material repre-
senting the hitherto accepted species lafresnayi and fuscescens
go to indicate that we are really dealing with only one species,
fuscescens. I have before me nearly 200 specimens representing
the species in its distribution through Uganda and the whole of
Kenya, from the Abyssinian border and Juba River to the
Kilimanjaro-Usambara line and thence into Tanganyika, Moro-
goro, Dar-es-Salaam, and Lumbo, P.E.A. Arranging the material
geographically, it appears that birds with green backs, uniform
or only slightly barred, extend through Uganda to Elgon, through
the forest country of the Cherangani, Kakamega, and Mau-Sotik,
thence across the Rift to the Aberdares, Kikuyu, and Mt. Kenya.
It is at once noticeable that the birds from the Sotik area are
becoming barred, in fact some are hardly to be distinguished
from the Morogoro bird which is hartlaubi, nor from the Usam-
bara birds which also belong to that race. We thus find that

the species, as it extends south from Uganda becomes barred on
the back. Assuming the Morogoro-Usambara birds to be hart-
lauhi, and I am assured that they are, we next trace them up
along the coast, but how far? Sclater says (Sy sterna) not along
the coast south of Mombasa. Friedmann says more or less the
same. I have in my large coastal series, individuals which, had
they a Morogoro label on them, would, on the strength of their
colouration, be identified as hartlaubi unquestionably. They
come from Vanga, Takaungu, and Lamu.

Turning now to the group accepted as fuscescens, birds with
well marked barring on the back, we first have the race hemp-
richi which, according to Friedmann, ranges through eastern
Abyssinia, south Somaliland, Jubaland, and the Northern Fron-
tier of Kenya. These are represented in my collection by birds
from the Juba River, Marsabit, and Archer’s Post. The next
race is what has been accepted as massaica, type locality Nguru-
mansee. They, according to Friedmann, range from just within
the Kenya-Uganda border, Turkana, through the whole of
central Kenya to south of Lake Victoria, north-eastern Tanga-
nyika (S.E. Lake Victoria), through Kilimanjaro, Usambara to
the Kenya coast. In other words they are said to occupy a con-
siderable tract of Kenya where lafresnayi lepidus occurs. I do
not know whether he had actual material of massaica which can
be definitely associated with the area he has shown on his map
in which lepidus occurs. I have carefully checked my material,
and in no place do the two overlap. A passage in Vincent’s
recent paper, Ibis, 1935, p. 20, is pertinent to the matter: “ It has
been hinted at for years that somewhere fuscescens and lafres-
nayi .... were side by side .... but where is it? I
think the answer is nowhere.”

This is not really the correct answer, if by “ side by side ”
Vincent means occupying the same territory and/or running
parallel. Let us take for example the Elgon-Turkana area: on
Elgon, in the forest we find lepidus (my specimens and
Granvik’s), but outside the forest area in the bush and acacia we
get the barred-back massaica . Note then that there is an

ecological change in environment, vegetational, and altitudinal.
The same applies to birds from Cherangani: lepidus in forest,
massaica in the Suk plains. Again lepidus in the forests of Mau
and Kericho, Sotik, and massaica in the savannah forest and
acacia country. Again, in the forests of Nairobi and Kiambu,
lepidus; in the Ukamba country to the south massaica. In the
Usambara — what has been called — hartlaubi, in the high and
moderate rainfall areas: to the north of the Umba steppe,
massaica. But in this last case, with the change from forest to
savannah and steppe forest we find hartlaubi is strongly barred

on the back, and indeed where this race merges into the coastal
massaica, some of the birds are difficult to assign to a specified
race.

A glance at the accompanying map will show the distribu-
tion as represented by my material. It appears reasonable that
we are dealing with one species, so far as the evidence of East
African birds are concerned. The foregoing is my independent
view.

Here again, Moreau has drawn my attention to Lynes’s
paper in J. f. Ornith., 1934, on page 69 of which he suggests
exactly what I have written. Grant (in lit.) 5/10/38 agrees that
there is only the one species, fuscescens, with so many races.

Comparing the Chyulu birds of 4,500 and 7,000 foot edge of
forest with massaica and hartlaubi we find them to be definitely
different. The ground colour is darker, blacker so that the white
barring is in more contrast, yet the dorsum is that of a darker
bird than massaica, and with very much less greenish-yellow
and yellow wash than hartlaubi. The streaking on the breast
is stronger.

There is greater difference between these Chyulu birds and
massaica than between the latter and hemprichi.

Type: Male, 19/5/38, Chyulu Range, 6,000 feet. Coryndon
Museum Expedition, 1938. Paratypes 4 males, 4 females, 3
sub-adults.

CAMPOTHERA NUBICA NEUMANNI > PALLIDA.

Red-headed Spotted Woodpecker.

There were a few examples of this species to be noted along
the range but they were few and far between and limited to the
lower slopes where Erythrina and Cussonia were the dominant
trees of the lava flows, 4,000-5,000 feet. In the specimens obtained,
there is an indication of intermediate characters between two
races. I retain the name neumanni for the large Kenya High-
land birds, for with further material the view is strengthened
that they do run larger than northern birds, i.e. we have a greater
preponderance of large birds of 114-116 mm. in wing length, in
the Kenya Highlands. Birds which have small white spots on
the head are always immature, or juveniles of both sexes.

INDICATORIDAE.

INDICATOR INDICATOR. Common Honey-guide.

Although very common all along the route from Kibwezi to
the hills, this species was scarce on the range. It was seen at
and obtained in the Erythrina clumps on the east and western
lava flows at 4,500 and 5,000 feet. During the time of our visit.

many of the M’kamba bee-boxes were being emptied of their
honey and at each spot two or three birds were noted.

INDICATOR VARIEGATUS VARIEGATUS. Speckled

Honey-guide.

This species is also represented in the collection: they
occurred in similar localities to the large species and also in the
smaller forest patches where some of the Cussonia trees had bee-
workings in doles in the stems. 4,000-5,000 feet.

Taxonomic Note.

Among ihe birds collected on the Chyulu Range were
examples of this species. This has led me to look up Grant and
Praed in B.B.O.C. , Iviii, 1938, p. 118, and compare it with the
views expressed in Jackson’s book (Sclater), 1938, and Sclater in
Systema; Av. Aeth. and Sclater, B.B.O.C., 1922, pp. 60-61; and
Neumann, 1908.

Starting off with Grant and Praed, we find these authors
state the type locality of the nominate race as Knysna, followed
by an assertion that jubaensis must be considered a synonym of
the nominate race. Sclater in B.B.O.C., 1922, states that he
examined no specimens of jubaensis (presumably there were
none in the British Museum or in the Jackson collection). As
Grant does not say that he has examined such birds, we can
presume that he, too, had no specimens in support of his asser-
tion. He has arrived at his conclusions in a rather curious way.
Starting with Neumann’s statement that jubaensis has wings of
97-103, and finding that some South African and P.E. African
birds run to 103 and 101 (it is not mentioned how many out of
the series, nor the series), the opinion is expressed that
jubaensis becomes a synonym. No reference is made to my
remarks in Nov. Zool., 1932, nor the measurements of the long
series therein mentioned. Kenya, inland Highlands, 108-115
mm. Coastal belt to Juba River, 100-105 mm. The Chyulu
birds are 104-105. They would have been more convincing if
the measurements of the entire series had been given so that
one could judge of the number having such small wing propor-
tions as say the Kenya coastal and Jubaland birds. What of the
75% convention?

Through the kindness of Dr. Austin Roberts, I am able to
give the measurements of South African material.

Males. — Knysna: 111-113 mm. East London: 115 mm.

Durban: 108 mm. Zululand: 109-112 mm. Transvaal: 111 mm.

Females. — Grahamstown: 105-107 mm. Beira: 105 mm.

Sclater (“ Systema ”) admits jubaensis. In Jackson’s book,
he includes it; in 1922, he admits it but has examined no speci-

mens. I think Grant and Praed are premature in sinking this
name.

INDICATOR MINOR. Lesser Honeyguide.

This species was numerous especially in the more open
forests and amongst the Erythrina patches, 4,500-6,500 feet. One
bird was secured near the edge of the great forest where some
of our porters were smoking out a bees’ nest.

Taxonomic Note.

Grant has recently stated, B.B.O.C. , 1938, p. 119, that the race
teitensis, Neum., is untenable. It is admitted by Sclater in
Jackson’s Birds of Kenya. In Nov . Zool., 1922, I suggested that
if the races are separable on size only, it would appear that no
great reliance could be placed on this character. I gave a series
of wing measurement of series from the coast up to Lake Rudolf,
grouping them according to general colouration.

The Chyulu Expedition secured eight more specimens and
as the Chyulu Range is within the “ terra typica ” of teitensis
(recognising that we are dealing with a somewhat nomadic
species not restricted to any one type of country, as my series
shows), and they give the following wing measurements: Males,
85, 86, 87, 88. Females, 84, 85.

The material loaned by me to Grant and referred to by him,
with additional material since collected, give the following:
Kenya Highlands, Aberdares, Nairobi, Kyambu, Kikuyu: Males,
91, 91, 93, 93, 93, 95, 98 mm. Females, 86, 87 mm. Kilimanjaro:
Male, 91. Female, 86mm. Lake Victoria area: Males, 93, 96, 96
mm. Female, 92 mm. Rudolf area : Males, 86, 86 mm. Females,
85, 85, 85, 83 mm. Kenya Coast: Males, 83, 87 mm.

From the above data it will be noted that the largest birds
are from the Kenya Highlands, Kilimanjaro to Lake Victoria.
The Coastal birds are smaller, as are the birds from Lake Rudolf
area. These latter show an approach to diadematus.

Two birds from the Yala-Kaimosi forest are much more
golden above and much darker grey below than any others.
Two of the Chyulu birds are strongly washed with green all
over the underside; they are sub-adult.

INDICATOR MINOR ERLANGERI.

Grant does not deal with this race under the races of minor
op. cit., but discusses it on page 141 under exilis.

I think he rightly places it in the minor group, but surely
he disposes of the name in a very casual way. Because Zedlitz
gave the wing measurements as 80-84, and Grant finds that in
the aggregate of what he takes to be minor minor the minimum is

81 (? female), he states that the name erlangeri cannot be upheld
On page 119, Grant mentions one of my birds from Unsi, Juba
River as having wings of 76 mm. It is a female, and also from
this river there was a male of 80 mm. which he does not mention.
There is also a bird from Lugh with wings of 76 mm. Referring
to the bird of 76 mm. he says “ There is no doubt that it is
I. minor minor. This is in keeping with the known fact that
birds from the lower and middle Juba River area .... run
small in size, though they are seldom so constant as to be recog-
nisable as good races.” I am not satisfied that he is right in this
last statement nor yet that the Juba birds are minor minor.

It would appear that apart from my two birds which he
examined, he had no further material from this area. The Juba
birds are paler above and below than minor minor and I uphold
the race erlangeri.

PRODOTISCU S REGULUS REGULUS. Brown Pigmy

Honeyguide.

A solitary bird was noted in the Erythrina trees below Camp
2 at 5,000 feet and was secured. It was the only specimen of
this species observed throughout the range. Its stomach con-
tained a mass of Coccids which had been removed from a
Loranthus parasitic on the Erythrina.

COLIIDAE.

COLIUS STRIATUS CHYULU. Subsp. Nov. Chyulu Coly,

or Mouse Bird.

The Colies of the Chyulu hills, unlike the birds of Nairobi
and Mombasa, were extremely shy, and one could seldom come
near them. They were plentiful all along the range, and were
most numerous on the western side at the 5,000-6,000 foot level,
and extended up to the higher forests of 7,000 feet. These birds
were definitely associated with the forests, for on many occa-
sions I noted them feeding on fruit-bearing trees in the middle
of forests of 20 acres in extent. At other times one would note
them in the smaller patches, but invariably they came to the
bigger forests to roost. It was at this time, just about sunset,
that one was able to secure a sufficient series. During the day,
one might hear the birds in a particular clump of trees and
perhaps see a few on the outer branches, but as soon as one
approached, the birds dropped into the thick trees and made
their way towards the off side. The call of the Chyulu birds,
though somewhat similar to that of the coast or inland, has a
distinctive intonation.

Dissection of stomachs showed that the birds fed largely on
figs, Lantana, Rapania, shoots of Catha edulis, and fruits of
Jasmin. An occasional insect was also found. These birds were
associated in groups of six to as many as twenty in a bunch, and
could be considered as common. About 16 specimens were
collected so as to ascertain by series what position they held in
regard to the distribution of the races of this widely spread
species.

Taxonomic Note.

In order to ascertain the position of these birds from the
Chyulu Range, I have arranged in series all the material avail-
able representing the distribution of the races of this species
from the coastal belt of Eastern Africa (Dar-es-Salaam to the
Juba River), inland to Marsabit and Lake Rudolf and Uganda,
some 235 specimens, represented by series throughout.

In considering the possible position of the Chyulu birds we
may eliminate, as comparable, C. s. affinis, type locality Dar-es-
Salaam, so also C. s. mombassicus, type locality Changamwe. In
affinis the throat is grey with no black, and the head and mantle
are without barring. In mombassicus, the head is greyer than
affinis, as is also the mantle; the latter is barred, and the under-
side darker. There are also other differences which need not be
detailed here. We may also eliminate the inland race kikuyu -
ensis, ugandensis ( jebelensis ?) as well as marsabit. These are
darker, more brownish birds with very black throats. We are
then left with the birds from the Usambaras, Kilimanjaro, Mt.
Meru, and Oldowai, the country just north of the Ngurumans,
Mara River, and Sotik. In other words, with the birds on either
side of the Kenya-Tanganyika boundary line.

I find the Usambara birds to be intermediates between the
race mombassicus and a race found on the Chyulu Hills, and
quite distinct from a further race at the south of Mt. Kilima-
njaro at Marangu which will be referred to later. The relation-
ship toward mombassicus is indicated by the general type of the
throat-upper-breast barring, but the general tone of the upper
side is greyer, and the mantle barring is not so distinct. In the
type of throat patch they show an approach to affinis, but are
much nearer to mombassicus. The greyish tone to the brown
upper side appears to show influence of cinerascens (Irangi) from
due west, but they are not to be confused with that race. They
do indeed approach very near to the Chyulu birds but differ from
them in that the throats are not nearly so dark. In the Usam-
bara birds the eyes are brown. The indications then are, that
the Usambara birds are an intermediate aggregate with tenden-
cies toward mombassicus, affinis, and chyulu, which is now
described.

Description: Nearest to cinerascens, but differing from that
race by being less pure greyish on the crown and mantle, wings
and tail, which are only slightly more greyish than the Usam-
bara birds, but differing from these latter by having a much
blacker throat, strongly barred upper breast but paler under-
sides. Associated with these birds are specimens from North
Kilimanjaro and Mt. Meru, which show an undoubted tendency
towards cinerascens, being more greyish than Chyulu birds but
not as grey as cinerascens. Furthermore, they have brown eyes
like chyulu, not yellow or cream as in cinerascens.

Type: Male, Chyulu Range, 5,500 feet, 23/5/38, Coryndon
Museum Expedition, 1938. Paratypes twelve. Altitude range,
4,500-7,000 feet. Distribution: Chyulu Mountains, and on north
Kilimanjaro at Ngare Rongai, and Mt. Meru.

Through the kindness of Mr. Moreau, I have been able to
examine specimens from Mbulu and Monduli, and I associate
with these, birds from Oldowai. They are characterised by a
decidedly grey crown and mantle, wings, and tail; eyes cream
or yellow. These are cinerascens, Neum., type locality Irangi.

Birds to the north of the Ngurumans, at Pusumuru, north to
Mara, Sotik, and Kericho, show an affinity toward cinerascens
and kikuyuensis; they are intergrades between these two.

I propose now to revert to the birds of south Kilimanjaro
taken at Moshi and Marangu. They differ from the birds of the
Usambaras, Chyulu, and north Kilimanjaro by being very much
browner on the head, mantle, wing, and tail, darker brown on
the underside, and the eyes are yellow. From the brown race
kikuyuensis, they differ in being less dark brown, and paler on
the belly. COLIU3 S. MARANGU. Subsp. n.

Type: Male, Marangu, south Kilimanjaro, 9/8/20, in my
collection; six paratypes. Distribution: South Kilimanjaro,

Moshi, and Marangu.

The views I have herein expressed are in no way contrary
to those already published in Nov. Zool., 1922 and 1932; rather
do they substantiate and amplify them in accordance with
additional material now available. The birds recorded as
affinis in Jackson’s book, 1938, edited by Sclater, are not typical
of this race. I do not consider that affinis enters Kenya at all.

EURYLAEMXDAE.

SMITHORNIS CAPENSIS. Chyulu Broadbill.

This bird was apparently very rare, for although a sharp
lookout for it was kept throughout the three months we were on
the hills only two specimens were shot. I did not hear the call
of this bird and so cannot contrast it with that of the Nairobi

race medianus. The Chyulu birds are not so streaked with black
on the underside, in fact the lines are very sparse, and the
amount of greyish and buffy wash of the breast found in
medianus is absent except for a slight trace of the latter colour.

Usambara birds have been recorded as medianus (Ibis, 1932,
p. 669), but Stresemann, after comparing them with the type of
suahelicus, Grote, considers that they should bear that name
(Moreau in lit.).

The exact determination of the Chyulu bird must await
further material from the range. The Chyulu birds have the
streaking on the under side and above, narrower, and less
extensive.

ALAUDIDAE.

MIRAFRA FISCHER! Flappet Lark.

This characteristic bird of the more open bush and acacia
country was the only species of Lark which might be admitted
to the bird fauna of the Chyulu hills. It was very plentiful in
the country between Kibwezi and the foot of the range at 3,500
feet, but it was not found on the higher elevations of the main
ridge. It is of interest to find the bird on the lower lava flows,
for on these more or less flat areas, especially the larger ones
towards the base of the hills, the vegetation conforms to that
type usually associated with the species.

The two specimens taken were at about their highest line of
distribution, viz., 4,500 feet. One is in the very dark blackish
phase, the other in the dark brown but not rufous-rusty plumage.
They were collected on 19/5/18 and 5/6/38.

MOTACXLLIDAE.

ANTHUS NICHOLSONI CHYULUENSIS . Chyulu Long-billed

Pipit.

Apart from migratory Pipits ( Anthus trivialis) this was the
only species met with on the whole range. It is of interest to
note that these birds were always in the vicinity of the forest
patches on the higher levels and when flushed, invariably flew
to some tree in the forest rather than to some bush in the grass-
land. I did not record this bird from elevations lower than
4,500 feet and at the same time it ranged to the 7,000 feet level.
In the field one at once noted that these birds appeared very
much darker than any of this species I had met with elsewhere
and for this reason a good series was collected. They are more
partial to the short-grass moorlands, where, on account of the
very shallow depth of soil, the grass grew to no great height,

rather than to the tall oat-grass slopes. Where this latter had
been burnt off and the new grass had assumed no great length
one found the birds. They were very timid and most had to be
shot as they got up, for had one waited until they rested on the
top of a forest tree, the chances were that the bird would not
be recovered in the thick growth of the forest margin. The
food taken consisted of small mollusca, nymphal grasshoppers,
bugs, and termites, and other insects which were indeterminable
amongst the stomach debris.

The only call noted was made as the bird was flushed, a
double “swi-swi.” We found no signs of nesting, but obvious
young of the season just over were about.

Taxonomic Note.

The twelve birds secured by the Museum Expedition to the
Chyulu Range are darker than any of the comparative material
available, some 30 skins, and this dark colouration is maintained
in all stages. If one examines the new feathers of any specimen
from the Kenya Highlands, none have the same blackness cen-
trally as the full plumaged Chyulu birds. These, without doubt,
are a dark montane race with a limited distribution in the
Chyulu Range, for we find that the next geographically is a
paler bird. 1 refer to those birds which are to be met with in
the region of Apis Rock about 20 miles north of the Oldowai
Gorge, in Tanganyika Territory. This area is a dry one, and
not montane, nor is it subjected to mist clouds. The Chyulu
birds were located at the edge of mist-forest. Birds from the
Kedong Valley through Naivasha, Nakuru, to Mau are only
slightly darker than these Oldowai birds; on the other hand,
birds which show an approach to the material from Chyulu are
to be found in the Marsabit area, but even these are not so dark.
The Chyulu birds may be described as follows:

Description : General plumage above from forehead to

rump, darker than the race neumannianus, Hartert (Nom. nov.
for longirostris, vide Friedmann, Bull., 153, U.S. Nat. Mus., pp.
251-252), of southern Ethiopia south to Kenya, Rift Valley as far
as Lukenia. They are very much darker than birds from
Oldowai. The dark portions of the feathers of the mantle, inner
secondaries, and wing-coverts and tail blackish with a strong
green-blue reflection; breast with spotting more numerous, and
distinct. Type: Male, Chyulu hills, 6,000 feet, 4/5/38. Coryn-
don Museum.

Comparative wing measurements:

Chyulu birds: Males, 95-100 mm.; females, 90-96 mm.

Oldowai: Males, 102-105 mm.; females, 95-97 mm.

Nakuru, Naivasha, Lukenia: Males, 100-102 mm.;

females, 97 mm.

Northern Guasso, Marsabit: Males, 100 mm.; females,
90-92 mm.

Rudolf, S.W. : 89, 92, 98 mm. (unsexed).

Moreau has recorded longirostris from Oldeani, south-east of
Apis Rock, and notes that this is a southward extension of the
range of the bird, from Naivasha, the last recorded locality. In
my 1922 paper in Nov . ZooZ., No. XXIX, I recorded it from
Sagala, Teita. These are near the Chyulu race, but are not so
dark.

TIMALIIDAE.

TURDOIDES HYPOLEUCA ? Sub-species. Pied or White-

bellied Babbler.

This was the only Babbler found on the Chyulu range and
was observed to extend from the lower bush and acacia country
of 4,000 feet up to the 5,000 foot contour, whereas in the Kibwezi
area up to the foot hills one met with Argya rubiginosa, but the
latter did not ascend the hills. It is not a forest bird but was
always found in the small scattered clumps of bush and trees
surrounding the Erythrina association. These clumps of
Erythrina colonisation were particularly plentiful on the larger
lava flows between the main and lateral series of volcanic cones,
and again on the large flow between the south end of Chyulu
proper and the Southern Chyulus. In these localities several
flocks of hypoleuca were located. They were always associated
in flocks of four to eight or so and attention was invariably
drawn to them by their harsh and persistent cries.

Of the series collected on the Chyulu Range, one is an
almost complete albino. There is a certain amount of variation
in the series inter se, but the series, compared with typical
material from Kitui and Machakos to Nairobi, etc., is very much
darker than any of these. Comparing fresh plumaged typical
birds with birds in similar state from the Chyulu Range, we find
the latter to be blacker above from crown to rump, wings, and
tail, and the half-breast-band is equally brown-black; the lores
and below the eye are black, while the ear-coverts are brown-
black streaked with white. Contrasting with the black lores,
there is a greyish to white spot in front of the eyes which is
carried back as a pale greyish supercillium. Examining the
freshly moulted-in feathers of hypoleuca hypoleuca we find that
they are never as dark as the fresh plumage of Chyulu birds.

A dark race has recently been described by Vincent,
jB.B.O.C., lv., p. 176, as T. h. kilosa. The description applies very

well to these Chyulu birds, but that district is hundreds of miles
from the Chyulu Range, and in between we have the race named
by Neumann, rujuensis, on the grounds of paler dorsal colour
(compared to nominate hypoleuca), the rump and upper tail-
coverts lighter than the back, the forehead light grey and the
feathers of the dorsum with pale edges. Ref. Friedmann, Bull.
153, U.S. Nat. Mus., 1937.

This race is said to range from Pangani to Kilimanjaro, and
is supported by Sjostedt.

PSEUDOALCIPPE ABYSSINICUS CHYULU. Subsp. nov.

Grey-headed Forest Babbler.

A long series of some thirty odd skins was obtained from
the great forest at the southern portion of the main range, and
a few were taken in its northward extension, but the species was
entirely absent from the central and northern drier forests.
The altitude variation of the forest areas in which the bird was
noted was approximately 5,000-7,000 feet; the undergrowth and
the floor of the forest being wet or constantly damp as a result
of the heavy mists and dew fall.

Stomach examination of over 20 individuals showed that the
diet is a mixed one, consisting of small berries (indeterminable)
insects and small molluscs. Most of the insects were in larval
form (Noctuid and Geometrids and Coleoptera).

Taxonomic Note.

The racial forms of this species, so far as Eastern Africa is
concerned, present some difficulty. According to Sclater, Syst.
Av. Aethiop., p. 364, one racial form extends from Abyssinia to
Tanganyika, through Kilimanjaro to the Usambara range.

In 1922, I accepted the name kilimensis, Shelley, for the race
inhabiting Kilimanjaro, and in 1932, Nov. Zool., p. 341, indicated
that there appeared to be a transitional trend in colour toward
the Kilimanjaro race, in specimens from South Mau, Aberdares,
and Mt. Kenya, the latter according to Sclater being abyssinicus
of which he made kilimensis a synonym. Being aware of the
uncertainty of validity of forms, a considerable series (30 odd)
was collected on the Chyulus. I am satisfied that these birds
are not similar to material from central Kenya Highlands, nor
do they agree with Kilimanjaro material; they in fact represent
a distinct geographical race.

Description : Compared with birds from Elgeyu, Mau, Aber-
dares, and Mt. Kenya, they have the crown and nape a purer
blue-grey, not ashy-grey; the mantle has a distinct olive tinge as

against the rufescent wash in the northern birds; the tails are
darker, less rufescent; the underside is a purer blue-grey, thus
the white flecking on the throat and the white in the middle of
the abdomen is in greater contrast. Furthermore wing and tail
measurements show that the Chyulu birds are smaller.

Comparative Measurements :

Wings

Chyulu birds.

2 birds 64 mm.

6 „ 65 mm.

3 „ 66 mm.

11 „ 67 mm.

5 „ 68 mm.

3 „ 69 mm.

Wing average 67 mm.
Tail average 57 mm.

Kenya Highland birds.
4 birds 71 mm.

Wings

5
2

mm.
mm.
mm.
mm.
mm.

72 mm.

73 mm.

74 mm.

Wing average 73 mm.

Tail average 64 mm.

Because there is an overlap between the maxima of the one
and the minima of the other, some might query the status of the
Chyulu birds, but taking these measurements along with the
definite colour differences, one is justified in recognising a local
race. Type, male, Chyulu Camp 3, 5,800 feet, 29/6/38. Coryn-
don Museum Expedition, 1938. Paratypes 32 specimens.

In 1928 Grote (Orn. Monatsb., 1928, p. 77) described a race
from the Usambara range as micra. This is relegated to the
synonyms of abyssinicus by Sclater (Sy sterna Av. and Jackson's
Birds, 1938). Mr. Moreau has kindly supplied me with material
from Pare and Usambara. Wings 66-68 mm., and I have Kilima-
njaro birds with wings 66-71 mm. It is a remarkable fact that
this material shows no or very slight colour differences to the
Kenya Highland birds, thus differing from the Chyulu race,
which, because of their isolated range, have become differentiated
to a greater degree than have the Usambara birds.

PYCNONOTIDAE.

PYCNONOTUS TRICOLOR CHYULU. Subsp. nov.

Chyulu Yellow-vented Bulbul.
The Yellow-vented Bulbul of the Chyulu range was found
at altitudes varying from 4,000-7,000. They were invariably in
pairs, or pairs with young just from the nest. In the smaller

patches of forest up to five acres or so these birds were often
met with in the canopy of the interior, but for the most part, and
certainly in respect to the Great Chyulu forest, they were usually
associated with the outer margin where the bulk of their food
was to be found. Such nests as were found were in the marginal
fringe of woody herbs, Vernonia and Leonotis mixed with
Lantana , Cissus, and Celastraceae. It was usually in the last
that the nest was located. These birds are largely frugivorous
but quantities of insects are also taken. Stomach contents were
examined and found to contain berries of Rapania, Lantana ,
Jasmin, Fig, and Erythrococcus, together with nymphal forms of
grasshoppers and other insects. The call of these birds is hardly
to be distinguished from that of the plains race teitensis, van
Som.; it is perhaps fuller, less high pitched, but the phrasing is
identical. In common with others of this group, these birds have
a low call “ cheedle-lit ” as they sidle up to one another (for they
are fond of sitting alongside each other), and the song (sic) com-
posed of four notes is like “ Chee-chidle-chidle-lit.” The only
time when these birds were noted in numbers together was in
the early morning or in the late afternoon when they congre-
gated round the only water drip at the north end of the range.
Here perhaps four or five pairs might be seen, but at the central
and southern end no congregating was noted; a sufficiency of
water was obtained from the vegetation which held the heavy
dew and mist throughout the entire day. As in the highland
race, these birds were sociable and two pairs hung around our
camp 1, in the vicinity of the “cook-house” and the porters’
quarters; when the remains of “ posho ” and other food debris
was thrown out they would help themselves freely, though such
diet was actually foreign to them.

Taxonomic Notes.

I was not a little surprised to find that the Pycnonotus of the
Chyulus was of the “ plains ” type and not micrus , Mearns, asso-
ciated with Kilimanjaro and the surrounding districts. They
are of the speckled-breast, white-neck-spot group more allied to
dodsoni. The nearest race of this type is teitensis ( peasei ), but
it is quite obvious that the ecological conditions of the range
have given rise to a local race which cannot be united with any
of the described forms. The colour of the mantle, back, wings,
and tail is very much darker; the entire head is blacker, less
brown-black; the ashy breast band is darker while the under-
side is pure white, thus in greater contrast to the breast band;
the vent and under tail-coverts are paler lemon yellow. Under
wing-coverts at bend of wing washed with yellow; wing-coverts
with distinct yellowish-green on margins.

Type: Male, Chyulu Hills, 6,560 feet, 27/4/38. Coryndon
Museum Expedition, 1938.

Thirteen specimens; wings, males, 83-87 mm.; females,
78-82 mm.

I should like to take this opportunity of drawing attention
to a misprint in my paper Nov. Zool., XXXVII, 1932, p. 347, where
the wing measurements of the various series are dealt with.
After P. tricolor dodsoni , the word dodsoni should be in
brackets indicating that the birds are of this type but not that
particular race. Thus P. t. ( dodsoni ) from Teita and Tsavo areas
are the race ieitensis referred to above; further, P. t. (dodsoni),
Mombasa and coast line, is littoralis, also mentioned before. For
the present known distribution of the races, refer to the adjoin-
ing map.

Friedmann and Loveridge, in dealing with this group of
Bulbuls in Bulletin , Museum of Comp. Zool., Vol. 81, No. 1, p.
229, have placed the Kenya coastal birds, or as they put it, “ the
coastal plain of Southern Kenya Colony,” as micros, Meams.
Birds from this area are my littoralis and not micros. When
dealing with the next race, they state “ that altitude is the impor-
tant factor in the distribution of sub-species in Eastern Africa,”
and they suggest that the Kenya highland race fayi (type loc.
N jab ini, western Aberdares) is the bird found on Usambara.
My first comment is, that the birds of the Chyulu Hills up to
7,000 feet are not fayi but are of the speckled-breasted group,
nearest to teitensis (Peasei, Mearns) inclining to dodsoni, and
are not of the plain-backed-plain-breasted group to which fayi
belongs. So much for the factor of altitude. My next comment
is in connection with the recent treatment of these bulbuls by
Friedmann in Bulletin 153, United States National Museum. In
this review he maintains dodsoni and tricolor as separate species,
and when dealing with the races of the former, unites my
teitensis with veasei , and reverses the opinion of Dr. Oberholser,
who dealt with the same comparative material of peasei which
Friedmann has, and declared that my teitensis was distinct from
it (peasei). Friedmann then, without, as he admits, any material
of littoralis, makes it a synonym of peasei, thus following
Sclater in Systema Avium Aethiopicarum. I can only quote a
passage from a letter from Sclater, after he had examined a series
of these bulbuls I had sent him, after publication of his
“ Systema ” :

“ Your littoralis and teitensis between them seem to
bridge the gulf between dodsoni and the tricolor group.
Teitensis must, I think, be the same as Mearn’s peasei, and
does perhaps average a little larger than dodsoni proper, but
there is a good deal of variation among examples from the

Sketch map showing distribution of races of P. tricolor within Kenya and
Uganda.

Pycnonotus tricolor

minor.

55 5*

fayi.

5 5 5?

micrus.

55 5 5

littoralis.

55 55

dodsoni.

5) 55

peasei ( teitensis )

5 5 5 5

chyulu.

5 5 5 5

spurius.

same neighbourhood and I should not be inclined to recog-
nise a race with so slight a character as a variation of 2 or 3
mm. in wing. Your littoralis from Sokoke and Changamwe
appears to be distinctly intermediate with dodsoni and
micrus (of which a series was sent from topotypical iocs.)
on the whole nearer micrus as they show hardly any sign of
the character of dodsoni. I should call them P. t. micrus
dodsoni , but if you like to give them a separate name,
I see no reason why you should not do so.”

I quote this extract in extenso because the views of Fried-
mann and Sclater are not in agreement. The view now is that
they all belong to one species, the intermediates being peasei and
littoralis. We find that Friedmann states that peasei, absorbing
littoralis within that race, extends to the Kenya coast; on the
other hand the same author states in Bulletin, Museum Comp.
Zool. op. cit., p. 229, that micrus extends to the Kenya coast.
This may be reconcilable if micrus is one species and peasei
another, but if my littoralis is the aggregate of interbreeding
between P. dodsoni peasei and P. tricolor micrus, as is suggested
by Sclater, then the species dodsoni and tricolor must be united.
In any case, if we assume that the distributions as shown on the
map accompanying Friedmann’s paper are correct, my very
extensive material (250 specimens) show that the race peasei
(including in this teitensis) extends right up to Marsabit, and
Lake Koroli, thus cutting right through his distribution of dod-
soni dodsoni, almost linking with the Abyssinian race spurius
which he upholds, and Sclater does not. Furthermore, in
Bulletin 153 cit. in further reference to littoralis, he says : “It
appears that the birds forming this aggregate are merely inter-
mediates between peasei and dodsoni, which suggestion is sup-
ported both by geography and ecology.” I incline to the opinion
of Sclater, that they are the aggregate between dodsoni dodsoni,
including dodsoni peasei (which is admissable, and absorbing
teitensis) and micrus, a race of tricolor. We thus revert to the
suggestion that dodsoni and tricolor are one species. It is more
than obvious that the Kenya coastal birds I have named
littoralis are not peasei, nor are they micrus, and they are the
birds which upset Friedmann’s allocation. Both his and
Sclater’s remarks suggest a close relationship of littoralis to
dodsoni, and as these birds show characters of both the dodsoni
and tricolor groups, one can only assume them to be of one
species. I have already shown that Friedmann’s map is not
correct so far as the distribution of peasei and dodsoni are con-
cerned, and I would further suggest that it is inaccurate on the
coastal strip also.

ARIZELOCICHLA MILANJENSIS CHYULU, Subsp. Nov.

Chyulu Streaky-cheeked Green BulbuL

Throughout the entire forested areas of the Chyulu range
this bird was plentiful and without exception the commonest of
the forest species. It occurred in the lower forests at 4,000 and
extended up to the highest point at 7,200 feet. The only types
of forest in which I failed to locate it were the remnants of the
cedar forests on the lower lava flows. Its distribution within
the forests was limited to the canopy and the upper mid-growth
thus occupying a different strata to that of Phyllastrephus , which
was almost entirely confined to the lower-mid and lower zones.
The only occasions when the species was noted at lower eleva-
tions were in those lesser forest patches where most of the berry-
bearing trees grew at the fringe of the forested craters. Refer-
ence has been made in the introductory narrative to the forma-
tion of the forests in the craters, indicating that at the upper
lip, exposed to the strong winds, trees which grew to a great
height in the body of the craters were stunted and distorted.
Amongst these were the Rapania, on the berries of which these
Bulbuls feed very largely. The fruits of these fringing trees
matured prior to those of the interior and the birds resorted to
them to feed. Among the other fruits and berries eaten one
noted a small Ficus , a Sapium, a small smooth yellow fruit
(species indet.), and also fruits of Lantana and Jasmin.

In contradistinction to Phyllastrephus , these birds are com-
paratively silent except when they are feeding; at such times
they call to one another, employing three notes like “ u-ki-ri ”
with an occasional trilling note. The “ song ” (sic) which I have
heard them utter, mostly in the early morning and late after-
noon is recorded in my notes as “churru-hichu-hichu-hichu-hick,”
the last note short and high. Like many other bulbuls they also
have a “ company call ” answered by different birds in turn.

When we arrived on the hills, mid-April, the nesting season
was over. A few old nests were located and these were, as noted
by me previously, as being a somewhat frail structure composed
of rootlets and twigs, fern roots for lining, and so thinly con-
structed that one can look through them. The situation of the
nest varies somewhat; often a horizontal fork is selected, at other
times an upright fork in a sapling tree, but the construction is
always the same. A description of the eggs is taken from my
notes on “ Bulbuls of Kenya and Uganda,” Nov. Zool., 1932 : buffy
in ground colour, lined and spotted with brown and with sub-
marks of lilac-grey; nestnig at Marangu in January and Feb-
ruary; in May at Taveta forest.”

Several young birds in nestling plumage were observed and
a few secured; some were just from the nest for their tails were

only half grown. In general scheme of colour they resemble
the adults but are duller and greyer below. Many of the adults
obtained during the first two weeks were in heavy moult, parti-
cularly about the head, wings, and tails. A long series of the
species was collected throughout the four months up to the end
of July.

Sclater, in Jackson’s Birds, 1938, suggests that as this species
occurs in north-east Tanganyika it might possibly be found in
Kenya. Already in 1932 I recorded it from Taveta.

The Museum Expedition secured a very long series from the
Chyulu Range much further to the north and well within Kenya
boundaries.

The only race of milanjensis recorded from Eastern Africa
is striifacies, Reich, and Neum., described from Marangu on
Kilimanjaro (not Chiradzulu, Nyasaland, as stated by Belcher,
“ Birds of Nyasaland,” p. 190). I have a series from this type
locality (Marangu) and was surprised to note that the first few
specimens collected on the Chyulu Range did not conform to
these Kilimanjaro birds; as a result a long series was taken
during the three months of our residence on the hills.

Description : The Chyulu birds differ in being clearer olive-
green from the forehead to the tip of the tail, not brownish or
golden olive green, and the whole of the lower surface is much
lighter; the chin being greyish and the throat yellowish. The
difference between the two races can be seen at a glance, when
the series from the two localities, Marangu and Chyulu, are laid
out side by side. The axillaries and under-wing coverts are
clearer yellow, as are also the inner webs of the primaries and
secondaries.

Type: Male, Chyulu Mts., Camp 3, 7,000 feet, 6/7/38.

Coryndon Museum Expedition, 1938.

Comparative wing measurements:

A. m. striifacies. — Marangu, 14 specimens, 94-100 mm.; Pare
and Usambara, 5 specimens, 94-99 mm.

A. m. chyulu— Chyulu Mts., 98-105 in males, 90-98 mm. in
females.

Over 100 specimens taken. Average wing length: Males,
101 mm.; females, 95 mm.

The distribution of this new race is from the Chyulu Range,
5,000-7,000 feet. Specimens from Mt. Mbololo, and the other
Teita hills are nearer to the Chyulu birds than to striifacies. The
specimens recorded by Loveridge from Mbololo, and those taken
by Moreau on Teita are of this type. The Coryndon Museum
now has a series of twenty specimens from Mt. Mbololo.

The females are slightly duller than males and have a
greyish wash on the breast. Immature and nestlings are not so
streaked on the ear-coverts and have a strong wash of greyish
on the breast and upper abdomen.

ANDROPADUS INSULARIS. Lesser Yellow-bellied Bulbul.

This species was noted as plentiful along the lower forests
up to 4,000 feet, but none were observed above this altitude.
The incessant call note was one of the features of the forest
patches of the lower lava ridges and flows. As no specimens
were collected I refrain from indicating its exact race.

PHYLL ASTREPHU S FISCHERI CHYULUENSIS. Subsp. Nov.

Chyulu White-throated Bulbul.

This species of Bulbul is an inhabitant of the forests keep-
ing almost entirely to the undergrowth and mid strata. By
reason of this fact it was most conspicuous and obtruded itself
on one’s notice by its chatter and scolding call as one put them
up during traverses through the forest. Opportunities for close
observation of the bird were afforded by a combination of two
factors : the undergrowth in most of the forests consisted of
Piper growing straight and clean-stemmed so that one could
obtain a clear view along the forest floor below their tops, if one
squatted, and secondly the inherent curiosity exhibited by the
birds. It was an easy thing to attract all the white-throated
bulbuls within a radius of a hundred yards by making a squeak-
ing or squealing noise like an animal in pain; within a few
moments the birds would appear and hopping about the Piper
stems in full view, they commenced scolding and flapping their
wings and expanding their tails in great excitement. Not only
under such circumstances were these birds noisy, but for about
an hour before sunset they would chatter and call as they sought
the particular spot in the undergrowth where they usually
settled down for the night. From the foregoing one must not
obtain the idea that the birds went -about in flocks, on the con-
trary, they were usually in pairs, or during the end of the nesting
period, in family parties of three to four.

Under ordinary conditions semi-companies might be ob-
served as part of a “ hunting party,” not in association with the
species which were working systematically through the canopy of
the forest, but at a lower strata, for even in this zone many
insects disturbed from the top would attempt to find shelter in
the mid-growth, only to be taken by birds hunting in it. Apart
from participating in these “ organised drives” as it were, these
birds are very methodical in their search for insects which
appear to be their staple diet. One can observe them moving

in one direction working the undergrowth, and if a creeper-clad
tree is in their path of progress they will ascend the lianas to
almost their limit then drop again into the undergrowth. As
they hunt they utter a sharp double note like “ pru-it, pru-it.”
If disturbed or excited the call note becomes “ pru-it, pru-it, prit.
pritprit,” or again, a sharp “ prip-prip ” changing to “ prup, prup,
prup ” varied with a guttural “ chirr.” The note seems to be
forced or explosive, and the call is accompanied by tail flirting
and flapping of wings.

Amongst the series collected are all stages from nestlings
to adults, but no nests were located. It would appear that here
also the nesting season was over by mid-April. A partial moult
after nesting seems to take place, for many adults were moulting
on the head and body and tail; some few were changing the
flight feathers.

Taxonomic Note.

The species Phyllastrephus fischeri has recently been re-
viewed by Moreau (B.B.O.C., Vol. Ivii, pp. 125-127). The author
is inclined to associate all birds of this species within Kenya,
with the exception of sucosus west of the Rift, and the nominate
coastal fischeri, with placidus, type locality Kilimanjaro. He
gives as the distribution of placidus : Kenya east of the Rift, from
Marsabit to Mt. Kenya, the Kenya highlands forests, Kilima-
njaro, and south to Nyasaland. He thus includes the race
marsabit described by me from a series of 10 birds, in 1930. He
admits that his comparative material from Marsabit was two
birds only. Mr. Moreau has since had the opportunity of
examining my series, and while individually no great difference
between a single Marsabit specimen and a series of placidus
from Kilimanjaro can be detected, in series there is a distinct
difference in tone, both above and below. Mr. Moreau still
thinks it “ very close.” However, I maintain its validity, the
more so, in view of the fact that he associates all birds from
Kilimanjaro, Pare, and Usambara with the Kenya highland ones.
Grote disagrees with this, and so do I. Vide post. To ascertain
whether there was any difference between the Chyulu birds
and those from Kilimanjaro and the Kenya highlands forests,
I have arranged the birds in three columns (50 skins Chyulu
— 50 skins Kilimanjaro - Kenya highlands); on two sides
Chyulu birds, and in between Kilimanjaro-Kenya material, in
four rows. The commencement and the end of the Kilimanjaro-
Kenya birds in each row has been indicated immediately by an
independent viewer with no knowledge except colour values;
furthermore, the Marsabit birds were subsequently indicated in
the same way. It is obvious, then, that in a series there are

these colour differences. In seeking to find a name which might
be applicable to the Chyulu birds, we have to consider cognatus,
Grote, founded on birds from Usambara. We have been assured
by Moreau that birds from that locality are not separable from
Kilimanjaro specimens. Grote’s stated difference was that
Usambara birds were darker on the sides of the body, more
dusty-olive-green as compared with the greyish-olive of Kilima-
njaro material. I have had the opportunity of comparing Usam-
bara material, through the kindness of Mr. Moreau. Herr Grote
(in. lit.) still maintains his race, and I do so also. The Chyulu
race is described as follows : Compared with placidus, the upper
surface darker, more pure olivaceous, less brownish-olive,
the crown is considerably darker olive; the wings and tail are
darker, less rusty. The undersurface is paler below than Kilima-
njaro-Kenya placidus with more white on the lower chest to
vent; flanks paler.

Compared with cognatus , Grote, the Chyulu birds are darker
above, and very much paler below.

Type: Male, Chyulu Mts., Camp 2, 5,800 feet, 28/5/38.
Coryndon Museum Expedition, 1938.

A series of 78 specimens were take during April to July.

Altitude range 5,000-7,200 feet. Wing measurements : Males,
94-86 mm.; 15 over 90, 6 of 89. Females, 75-87 mm.; av. 83 mm.

CHLOROCICHLA FLAVIVENTRIS CHYULUENSIS.

Subsp. Nov. Chyulu yellow-bellied Bulbul.

Only a few examples of this Bulbul were noted between
Camps 2 and 3 at altitudes of 5,000 feet in the undergrowth of
the forests. Because the species is common all along the coastal
belt and only less so in the highland regions up to 7,000 feet in
Kenya, we unfortunately paid insufficient attention to obtaining
a long series. Nevertheless such birds as were obtained indicate
that on the Chyulu hills these birds are considerably darker than
any race within eastern Africa. The Chyulu birds have the
same general habits as the other races, that is, they frequent the
undergrowth of the forests and are usually seen in pairs or small
family parties. Indication of their presence is usually given by
the scolding call which they make when disturbed, consisting
of three long and three short notes with the sound of “ pauw-
pauw-pau-pau-po-pauw.”

Taxonomic Note.

Differs from centralis of eastern Tanganyika, Loeru, mom -
hasae, Shelley of Kenya coast line, and meruensis, Meams, Mt.
Kenya, in its considerably darker colour on the upper side, which
is a dark olive with little brownish tinge, rather more greyish;

the crown of the head much darker than the mantle, being
blackish-olive; the tail is purer-greenish, less brownish. On the
underside the yellow is paler, but the breast and flanks are more
washed with greyish.

Type: Male, Chyulu Range, 5,000 feet, 23/5/38. Coryndon
Museum Expedition, 1938. Wings 103-110 mm. Paratypes, one
male and one female. Noted at Camps 2 and 3 at elevations of
5,000-6,800 in the forest undergrowth.

MUSXCICAPIDAE.

DIOPTRORNIS FISCHERI, Reichenw. Fischer’s Ring-eyed

Fly-Catcher.

This was by far the commonest Fly-catcher throughout the
range and was found from 3,500 to 7,000 feet in, and on the forest
margins. Though many times noted within the larger forests,
taking part in one of those concerted “ drives ” in which several
species of birds take part, this bird was more often noted along
the forest margins, not so much in the fringe of woody herbs
as along the edge of the forest trees. In this area they were
found in the canopy of the trees where they were noted as feed-
ing largely on berries. When seen on the edges of the forest
they were usually u hawking ” species of flying ants. None of
the birds obtained were sexually active; the nesting season was
well over and the young birds in first speckled plumage were
unattended by their parents.

Very often, and usually toward the late afternoon, one
observed them hunting over the streamers of beardmoss and
lichen which festooned the trees along the forest edges; from
such places they captured spiders and a few beetles, numbers
of small cockroaches, and earwigs. In all cases where stomach
contents were examined, there was invariably a good admixture
of berries, very often Erythrococca and Rapania. On two occa-
sions I noted a bird flying out after a Pierine butterfly, Belenois
mesentina. On the first occasion the butterfly was eaten after
the wings had been dislodged, but on the second, the insect was
dropped; the rejected one was a female with yellow hind wings,
and bears a superficial resemblance to a species of Mylothris
which was abundant along the forest edges

BRADORNIS PALLIDUS CHYULUENSIS. Subsp. Nov.

Chyulu White-throated Ashy Fly-catcher.

The Ashy Fly-catcher was fairly common on the range and
extended from the 4,500 feet contour up to 6,800 feet. It was
associated with the edges of the forest and in the lesser com-
mencing forests. It was not found in the interior of the forests.

One usually saw it perched on some exposed twig at the forest
edge or on the top of the Erythrina trees which were surrounded
by secondary growth and forming compact patches of vegetation.
The method of securing its prey is either by hawking when ants
are not on the wing, or by dropping down on some insect it
has detected on the ground. When it alights on the ground it
put its tail up and moves it up and down, as it strikes the insect,
firmly held in the bill against the ground. In this it resembles
to a certain degree Dioptrornis fischeri . This bird has been
observed flying out after small Fulgorids which have been dis-
turbed from the grass.

The species is resident on the range, but the breeding season
was over by mid- April (first nesting season). One or two birds
show signs of incomplete moult in that the 1st primaries are
still in sheath at the base.

Taxonomic Note.

These birds from the Chyulu Range cannot be united with
B. p. suahelicus, van. Som., of the highlands of Kenya, nor with
the smaller subalaris of the coastal zone. In size they are
nearer to the former, but the darker, more grey of the upper
side distinguishes them. The series is uniform in colour and for
this reason we cannot unite them with suahelicus. They do
not belong to the microrhyncha group, but are a dark race of the
pallida association. The white of the throat is clearly defined
from the darker colouration of the chest. These birds are not
to be confused with B. taruensis, van Som., which is a distinct
species.

Type: Male, Chyulu Range, 5,000-6,800 feet, 7/6/38. Coryn-
don Museum Expedition. Paratypes seven.

Remarks: Wing measurements are 99-101 mm. in males,
90-79 mm. in females, thus smaller than in the race suahelicus ,
which give 102-106 mm. and 95-98 mm.

This is yet a further case where the bird fauna of the range
of mist differs from that of the surrounding plains and in the
same direction, viz., darker yet clearer colouration.

MELAEORNIS PAMMELAINA TROPICALIS, Cab.

Blue-black Flycatcher.

A few examples of this species were noted toward the foot
of the range, thus one saw them in deserted plantations at the
3,500 foot level and again at 4,500 feet, but the highest point
reached was 6.000 feet at the central portion of the hills. They
frequented the solitary Erythrina trees or these in association
with Cussonia and various woody herbs. It was thus a bird of
the lower lava flows and the commencing valley forests which

are spreading in the deep scored eastern face of the central
portion of the range. The association of this bird with the
Drongo of the plantations was of interest.

Two males obtained are in fresh full plumage, while the
female in like condition is generally duller, less strongly violet-
blue-black. Young birds were noted at 3,500 feet.

ALSEONAX MINIMUS CHYULU. Subsp. Nov. Chyulu Little

Brown Flycatcher.

Wherever we wandered about the range, this little bird was
in evidence. At the topmost heights of 7,200 feet to just below
5,000 feet all along the forest edges one met them. They were
usually in pairs and each pair seemed to have its particular
stretch of the forest edge. It was only when parents were still
with young in attendance that more than a pair were noted, in
one spot. From early morning to just at dusk these birds flitted
about after the minute Diptera and small moths which during
the first month of our stay were very numerous on the sheltered
side of the forest patches. There were certain large moss laden
trees behind our first camp which, after a shower of rain,
attracted many species of birds just after five o’clock as the sun’s
rays beat straight on to them. Most of the birds worked the
canopy and the streamers of beard-moss and in doing so dis-
turbed many insects and as these fell or flew downwards, a pair
of Brown Flycatchers snapped them up with avidity; the click
of their beaks was audible for some distance. These birds are
almost without fear of man and one could sit quietly near a bush
from which they darted out after passing insects and in so doing
many times they came within a foot of one. On one occasion I
was sitting in the scrub at the edge of the forest near where a
pair of birds hunted; my gun was held upright between my knees
and several times either one or other of the birds would alight
on the point of the barrels. Because of this sociable trait I
forbade any of the species to be shot near our camps. Notwith-
standing this order several birds found their way to the skinning
table. Another instance of temerity was shown when a pair
followed the trail of one of the insect collectors who was beating
the bush for beetles, etc. Many small moths were disturbed and
as these flew off the Flycatchers with unerring judgment snapped
them up. Two nests of this species were found. Both were
built in similar surroundings; between the upright fork of a
medium-sized tree where a small collection of debris hung down
one side. On the top of this and close to the trunk, the nest
was built with bark fibres, bits of lichen and moss and lined
with a few odd Francolin and Guineafowl feathers. Only young
birds were present, probably a late or second brood (May), for

on these hills the nesting season is much earlier than in the
Kenya highland areas.

Taxonomic Note.

When a series of these Chyulu birds are compared with
typical material from Kilimanjaro, murinus, it is at once evident
that the former are much darker on the upperside; a dark-ashy-
grey lacking entirely any brownish tinge which is noticeable in
murinus. In this respect they approach nearer to the race
roehli of the Usambara, specimens of which I have before me.
They are, however, darker than that race and can be distin-
guished further from it by having a brownish wash over the
upper abdomen and flanks. A further point of difference
between the Chyulu birds and murinus is that the former have
pale buffy to pure white throats which contrast strongly with
the darker ashy breast band. Out of twenty odd specimens
only two show any approach on the underside to murinus. I am
compelled, therefore, to describe the Chyulu birds as distinct.

Type: Male, Chyulu Range, 5,500-7,200 feet, 14/6/38. Coryn-
don Museum Expedition, 1938. Paratypes twenty-three.

Remarks : The variation in wing length is as follows : Adults
only — males, 62-64 mm.; females, 58-63 mm.

Kilimanjaro murinus run to 66 mm. as do also specimens
from the Kenya highlands. Moreau, P.Z.S., Jan., 1936, has some
remarks to make about these little flycatchers, and states that
birds of this group were submitted to Friedmann. Friedmann
(in. lit.) is of the opinion that the birds I described as marsabit
and those of the Kenya highlands, interpositus , are “ variable
intergrades between murinus on the south, and djamjamensis on
the north, Abyssinia, and pumilus on the west.” Birds from
Marsabit cannot be confused with murinus, for the reasons stated
in the original description, nor can they be considered as any-
thing like the Chyulu birds; the one is very brown, the other
almost blackish. Interpositus is the intermediate, not so very
variable, between murinus of Kilimanjaro, and marsabit of that
mountain. I have already indicated the approach of chyulu
toward roehli and in this connection would remark that birds
from Mt. Mbololo are near roehli.

BATIS MOLITOR PUELLA. Chin-spot Puff-backed

Flycatcher.

This was the only species of Puff-backed Flycatcher met
with on the Chyulu range. It occurred in the small, less mature
forest patches; in the dongas where Erythrina had established
itself; and along the margins of the larger forests, but was not
met with in the Great Chyulu forest of the south end. The

altitude range was 4,500-7,000 on the range proper, but it also
occurred on the plains. I never heard these birds utter more
than a double note, that is, the two notes which precede the
third, so characteristic of the birds of Naivasha and the Nairobi
area.

The curious “ clipping ” of the wings, which makes a sound
like “ pirip pirip pimp,” was often heard when the birds were
otherwise silent. I have recorded elsewhere the fact that parent
birds with eggs or young will, in an attempt to frighten off an
intruder if too close to the nest, snap their bills rapidly and with
considerable noise, at the same time “clipping” the wings.

BATIS MOLITOR group, and allied species.

Recent writers (Friedmann and Sclater) have cast doubt on
the validity of a small race of molitor which I named taruensis,
which is limited in its distribution to the coastal belt and imme-
diate hinterland. Within its distribution is found perkeo .
Sclater definitely states that molitor puella does not extend to
the coastal strip of Kenya. What race then does? The reason
for this limitation is obscure, unless it is admitted that my
taruensis which he suggests is a synonym of puella is in reality
a valid race, as I maintain.

Sclater further suggests that soror, with which he unites
littoralis of Zanzibar, and pallidigula of Lumbo, is a race of
molitor and that soror ranges along the African coast to Zanzibar
only, but I have it from the Pangani and Shimba Hills, Kenya.

When I published my paper in Nov. Zool., 1932, I attempted
to show that perkeo , treated as a species by Neumann, and sub-
sequently as such by Friedmann, Bull. 153, U.S. Nat. Mus., p. 240,
and placed as a race of orientalis by Sclater in his “ Systema,”
had certain definite affinities to soror , littoralis , and pallidigula
(assuming for the moment that they are separable), and there is
further evidence, in that Neumann has stated that orientalis and
perkeo occur together (ref. Friedmann) so the latter should not
be considered a race of the former.

If we examine perkeo and soror we find that they have the
same grey crown; very similar breast band, and whereas in the
latter the chin spot is large, in the latter it is “ represented by a
slight yellowish wash.” (cf. Friedmann, op. cit). Furthermore,
we find that the small white line from the base of the bill above
the black lores is tinged with yellowish or orange in soror,
pallidigula, and perkeo. I have referred to this at length, for I
do not wish Friedmann’s suggestion on page 241, op. cit., “ if van
Someren’s series of perkeo have brown throat spots, they are
wrongly identified,” to be taken seriously. My series have the
throat white or slightly yellowish washed. I do not know where

Friedmann obtained the idea that my birds had brown throat
spots.

My views are thus not entirely in agreement with the
opinion expressed by Vincent in Ibis, 1934.

The race of molitor of the Chyulu hills is puella.

TROCHOCERCUS BIVITTATUS BIVITTATUS.

Blue-headed White-bellied Crested Flycatcher.

Most numerous in the Chyulu Great Forest this bird was
also found in the lesser forests but not those which we have
designated as commencing valley forests and Erythrina associa-
tions.

The altitude range is approximately 5,000-7,000 feet. They
were often seen as members of a “ drive ” in the forest canopy,
but when not so engaged were usually observed in the mid- and
Piper strata. Their presence was at all times made known by
their high-pitched call consisting of five or three notes. They
are quite one of the most excitable of birds, even more so than
Phyllastrephus, that we met with. On one occasion at Camp 3
I heard a great commotion in the forest and went to investigate;
several species of birds were fluttering excitedly round a clump
of Piper in which I discovered an African Barn Owl. Most
vociferous of all the birds was a pair of Trochocercus which
darted in and out scolding loudly and between the ferocious
attacks they hopped about the branches overhead with quiver-
ing wings, outspread tails, and crests raised; the picture of fury.
I noted soon after that these birds had a pair of fledglings not
far off.

Taxonomic Note.

These Chyulu birds are more closely associated with the
coastal nominate race than the highland race kikuyuensis. In
both sexes the colour of the backs and wings are a shade darker
than a series from the coast, but in size they agree. Males have
wings of 67-70 mm.; females, 65-68 mm. It is thus of interest to
note that at 5,000-7,000 feet approximately the altitude of the race
kikuyuensis , the Chyulu birds retain the characters of the coast
race. This is also Moreau’s experience as recorded in Ibis , 1938,
when dealing with Mbulu birds.

CHLOROPETA MASSAICA. Chyulu Black-headed

Yellow Flycatcher.

Only one species of Chloropeta was found on the range. It
was noted at 4,500 feet up to nearly 7,000 feet, always along the
edge of the forests. Five specimens were obtained. Three are
adults in fresh plumage and two in intermediate dress between
the nestling and sub-adult dress. These adult birds do not

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agree with material from Nairobi area and Fort Hall and
Kericho, for they have the top of the head olive-black, not olive-
brown, and the colour of the mantle and wings more green, less
washed with golden.

Various views have been expressed as to the relationship of
these dark-headed birds to the plain-headed similis. Moreau
has noted that both are to be found at the 6,100 foot level (Ibis,
Jan., 1938, o. 13), and the Chyulu birds as already noted were
obtainable at 7,000 feet. I have always considered them to be
distinct species and the fact that one does not seem to meet with
any intermediates so far as colouration is concerned rather sup-
ports this view. I am not satisfied that there is any great
ecological difference in their habitats which would bar either
the one or the other from overlapping and, if they are really one
species, from producing intergrades; such have not been found.

TURDIDAE.

TURDUS OLIVACEUS CHYULUENS1S , Subsp. Nov.

Chyulu Orange-billed Thrush.

The orange-billed Thrush was plentiful throughout the
forested areas of the Chyulu hills, but was decidedly more
abundant in the Great Chyulu forest of the southern end. The
birds were frequently put up from the forest floor or were noted
feeding in various fruit-bearing trees. This race differs not at
all from the Elgon form of the Kenya highlands in general
habits but its alarm and call note is of a higher pitch and rather
more rapid in expression reminiscent of the English Blackbird
though not so full-throated : “ cheeup cheeup chip chip chip,”
the last three rapid.

They were usually seen singly or in pairs and if in associa-
tion with Starlings and Barbets on fruiting fig trees they acted
the part of bullies and kept other birds from the branch on
which they were feeding. They were particularly antagonistic
toward Bulbuls- Stomach examination showed the presence of
various small fruits, small mollusca, larvae of various orders,
and mature Coleoptera.

One not infrequently found them in attendance on a trail
of Dorylus (Siafu or Safari ants) in association with other birds,
engaged in raiding the column for insects and larvae which the
ants were carrying along. The method of attack was to hop
toward the moving line, seize the desired prey, and with rapid
lateral stroke on the nearest twig or leaf dislodge the attendant
ant. Very often the ant would not release its hold, in which
case it was swallowed along with the bit of desired food. The
birds were always quick to get out of the way of the disturbed

and broken column, and even so, some few were nipped in the
legs by the infuriated ants.

Taxonomic Note.

Nineteen adults and eight immature birds were collected.
The first few specimens obtained indicated that we here had a
race which differed from the Kenya highland elgonensis by its
generally darker colouration, and efforts were made to secure
an adequate series to ascertain if this feature was constant.

A comparison with a very long series of elgonensis shows
that the chief differences lie in the much darker colouration of
the upper side from forehead to tail. The whole aspect, includ-
ing the wings, is darker olive-ashy-black; the ioral spot is black,
and the earcoverts slightly less so. They thus differ from the
race elgonensis which has the upper side olive-ashy with a
decided brownish tinge (twenty-two specimens). On the under-
side the Chyulu birds have the throat and breast darker, more
olivaceous, the tawny orange of the flanks and abdomen is on
the whole darker, with less white toward the vent; the throat
is more distinctly streaked with black. Geographically, this
race is nearest to T. o. deckeni, Cab., of Kilimanjaro, from which
it can be distinguished at once, deckeni having a much darker
underside, though less dark uppersurface. From T. o. oldeani,
Scl. and Moreau, by its strong olive dark upper side, as against
a dark ashy-black without any trace of greenish tinge, and the
presence of chestnut or orange tawny on the underside.

Type: Male, Chyulu Camp 3, altitude 5,600, 22/6/38.

Coryndon Museum Expedition. Altitudinal range 5,000-7,200
feet, Chyulu Range. Comparative material of this race, 19 adult
males and females, eight immature.

Wing measurements: Males, 110-119 mm.; females, 107-113

mm.

Within Kenya and adjacent T.T. I recognise the following
races :

T. o. polius, Mearns. — Type loc. Lololokwi. Known distri-
bution, from its type locality northwards to Marsabit,
Mt. Kulal, and Mt. Nyiro at high elevations, and not
apparently in the intervening plains. There is a ten-
dency in this race toward the race a byssinicus as it goes
north. Intermediates between polius and elgonensis
are to be found on the Jombeni Range.

T. o. elgonensis , Sharpe. — Elgon, to the Cherangani, and
Mau, crossing the Rift to Mt. Kenya, and the Aberdares
and Kikuyu, and apparently to Longido and Kitum-
beine (these last on authority of Moreau, B.M. identifi-
cations).

T. o. chyuluensis, van Someren. — Limited to the Chyulu
Range.

T. o. deckeni, Cab. — Mt. Kilimanjaro and Mts. West, 4,000-
10,000 feet.

T. o. roehli , Reichw. — Usambara and Pare.

T. o. oldeani, Scl. and Moreau. — Mbulu district, T.T.

It will be seen therefore that the race elgonensis has by far
the widest distribution, but this is in keeping with the con-
tinuity of high forest in the Kenya highlands. I am not satisfied
that the Turdus olivaceus elgonensis recorded from Nguruman
are really typical of that race.

I have not included the bird described as Turdus helleri
from Mbololo in the above grouping. The topotypical series I
have is suggestive that it is a species. It has a longer, more
slender bill than olivaceus and its general facies is different to
the group as a whole. Doubtless it bears some similarity to
roehli in the matter of distribution of white below, but I think
it should be kept as a species. Jackson (Sclater) does not
mention it in his recent publication, yet it comes from Kenya,
and was described many years ago — 1913.

GEOKICHLA GURNEYI CHYULU, Subsp. Nov.

Chyulu Orange-breasted Forest Thrush.

A series of 22 skins. Altitude variation 5,600-7,200. This
bird inhabits the damp undergrowth of the great Chyulu Forest
and its adjacent forested craters. It was not recorded from the
north or central forested patches which have a very much drier
forest floor and undergrowth. It was a noticeable fact that the
species was most abundant in areas of the forest where Corrno-
phyringia was plentiful. The association with this forest tree
was at first obscure until close observation revealed the facts.
One had noted that many of the specimens obtained had the
fore-part of the head smeared with a sticky brown substance and
in some cases the facial and throat feathers were matted
together. The conclusion was that the birds had become soiled
in the process of eating some fruit. Most birds are extremely
cleanly in partaking of fruit and it appeared obvious that the
fruit eaten must be of fairly large dimensions and probably with
a tough skin. Such is the fruit of the Connophyringia, and on
several occasions I waited concealed under some bushes keeping
in view the floor of the forest where masses of these fruits lay
below the trees. It was not long before one noted that Goekichla
visited the spot and were active in picking out objects from
amongst the pulp of the fruit, obviously not taking mouthfuls of
the fruit substance. When the fruits were examined it was

found they contained quantities of Dipterous larvae and a subse-
quent examination of the stomach of birds shot revealed masses
of these larvae. Larvae of four species of flies were identified,
and flies were subsequently bred out of the fruits for identifica-
tion purposes. In addition to the larvae of flies, most of the
stomachs examined contained small mollusca, worms, odd berries
and larvae of other insects. The diet is, from observations made,
80% non fruit.

The habits of the bird are typically thrush-like; they are
almost entirely terrestrial, only moving up into the bush and
sub-strata of the forest when disturbed. Most of the birds had
finished breeding (June- July) and the young in first speckled
plumage were either in company with their parents or fending
for themselves.

One nest was located in a thick tangle of creepers and Piper.
The nest had a foundation of leaves and mosses, whilst the inner
lining was composed of fine fern rootlets. Two greenish-blue
eggs with very sparse spotting of dark brown formed the clutch.

The birds were usually met with in pairs as one worked
through the forest undergrowth and to note them one had to
take a few steps then peer along under the vegetation of the
forest floor; walking casually through the forest one could very
easily overlook the birds, as they are, for the most part, silent
even when disturbed. A note in my diary records the brief call
of the bird toward late evening before sunset as “ ti-tue-tue-too-
wee-to,” and a chuckle if suddenly flushed from the ground. On
one small rise in the great forest we obtained six birds which
were turning over the forest debris in search of small snails
which abounded in the spot. The turning of the dead and
rotting vegetation was done by a quick lateral flick of the bill.
The white ends to the wing coverts are a conspicuous feature
as the bird hops along the ground with wings depressed and tail
slightly raised, or when in flight.

Taxonomic Note.

This species was plentiful at the southern end of the main
Chyulu Range. Twenty-two specimens were collected. It was
desirable that a series should be obtained in order to note any
possible variation, first because two undoubted species have until
recently been confused, and secondly to test out the validity of
described races, more particularly G. gurneyi raineyi, Mearns,
described from Mt. Mbololo, and placed as a synonym of G.
piaggiae kilimensis by Sclater in the “ Systema.” No compara-
tive description was given with Mearn’s diagnosis of raineyi , but
he stated it was nearer to G. g. otomitra of Kondeland, than to
kilimensis of Kilimanjaro. In the original description, the

under tail-coverts are given as “ white throughout ” and on this
feature, Loveridge ( B . Mus. Comp. ZooZ., April, 1937, p. 243) states
that raineyi should not be considered a synonym of kilimensis
as suggested by Sclater (op. cit.) for kilimensis has “ the under
tail-coverts washed with cinnamon brown, and is smaller.” The
two, however, belong to different species.

In seeking to place the Chyulu birds I have obtained material
from Usambara kindly loaned by Mr. Moreau, and the Coryndon
Museum has a long series of topotypical raineyi from Mt.
Mbololo. It is as well to clear the identity of raineyi in its
relationship to usambarae. Loveridge (op. cit.) has suggested
that usambarae, Neuman, is possibly a synonym of raineyi,
Mearns. Usambara birds have wings of 107-112 mm.; the under
tail-coverts are buffy. In raineyi the wings are 110-115 mm. and
the under tail-coverts are white. In all cases these feathers are
not uniform, for all have their basal § bordered with olive.
Furthermore, the bills of usambarae are deeper, more robust, and
less gradually tapering toward the tip. The average depth is
7 mm. in a length of bill from the front of the nostril to tip of
14 mm. There is thus a difference between raineyi and usam-
barae. When we compare the Chyulu birds with raineyi to the
south we find that all have the under tail-coverts buffy, with the
exception of two in slightly worn plumage; the ear-coverts are
darker grey; and the brown mark before the eye toward the
nostril is restricted, and is sharply demarcated by the blackish
line of the lores. In raineyi the brown colour is shaded off
toward the gape and there is no sharply defined black loral line;
the under tail-coverts are white. The dorsal olive of the Chyulu
birds is greener less brownish tinged.

Comparing the Chyulu birds with usambarae, we note again
that although both have the under tail-coverts buffy, the bills of
the latter are more robust, deeper, more curved on the culmen,
and more angled in the lower mandible, thus coming to a point
more rapidly, not so slender and tapering. The dorsum of the
Chyulu bird is greener. The wing measurements of the Chyulu
birds are as follows : Males average 109 mm., the smallest female
is 104, the largest male 112; tails 75 mm.

Moreau, P.Z.S., 1936, p. 879, mentions that his birds G. p. of
Kilimanjaro were compared by me with keniensis, Mearns, at his
request, and that Sclater notes that “ the Kilimanjaro bird is
very close to keniensis. I note that Sclater in Jackson’s Birds
unites the two races. I am not satisfied that this is correct and
maintain the two as distinct races.

In order to stress the fact that there are two species of
Geokichla (excluding G. guttata fischeri) as pointed out by me
in 1932, and to emphasise the point previously made by Mearns,

I give a list of the species and races from within the area dealt
with in this paper. I recognise the following:

Geokichla gurneyi chuka, van Someren. Mt. Kenya.

Geokichla gurneyi raineyi , Mearns. Mt. Mbololo and Teita
range.

Geokichla gurneyi chyulu , van Someren. Chyulu range.

Geokichla gurneyi usambarae , Neum. Usambara and Ulu-
guru Mts. (Mts. Meru and Oldeani, authority, Grant and
Praed).

Geokichla piaggiae piaggiae, Bouv., Ruwenzori-Elgon.

Geokichla piaggiae keniensis, Mearns, Mt. Kenya and Aber-
dares.

Geokichla piaggiae ? Subsp. Mt. Uraguess.

Geokichla piaggiae kilimensis , Neum. Mt. Kilimanjaro.

Geokichla piaggiae rowei, Grant and Praed. Loliondo and
Arusha.

COSSYPHA SEMIRUFA 1NTERCEDENS, Cab.

Black-tailed Cossypha.

This species was plentiful throughout the forests of the
Chyulu range and was met with from the low-lying forest
patches of the foot hills at 4,000 feet to the highest point at 7,200
feet. It was the only species of this group, for there were no
examples of heuglini throughout the range. It occurred in
practically all the forest patches, from those of limited size of
about an acre, where the substrata of the forest was much
tangled, to the Great forest; but in the latter, and in the larger
forests, it was noted to frequent to the greatest degree the thick
tangled marginal growth rather than the interior of the forest,
except in those craters where tree growth was absent in the floor
of the crater, this being replaced by thick herbage, providing
suitable environment. Thus if one desired to observe these birds,
one worked the margin of the forest from within. In a day’s
collecting one could reckon on seeing more examples of this bird
than most species, and its presence was invariably made known
by its call. It is one of those species which on being disturbed
will at once commence calling. My experience of this bird is
now fairly extensive, and without hesitation I should place it
as a forest bird in contradistinction to heuglini which is more
often met with in bush country and cultivations than on the out-
skirts of forest land, if the forests are of the open type, and along
bush-grown dongas.

The call note of this bird is quite different from heuglini ,
but like that bird, semirufa is an adept at mimicry, copying not
only musical notes but calls of certain animals, such as Squirrels.

I more than once tried to locate the Chyulu Green Squirrel and
found only this bird.

Soon after dawn, whether fine or raining, these birds will
start calling, and indeed will, on moonlight nights, sing far into
the night. It is difficult to separate the true song of the bird
from the mixture of notes copied from the songs of other birds,
but the call consists of three whistled notes like “ hoo hoo hi-u,”
with a drop to the last, thus different to heuglini whose last note
is higher and shorter, and ends in “whit.” A low warbling song is
also uttered from the depths of a thick cover: “ tweu-tweu-chew-
twee-to-twee-ger-ge.” Mention has been made elsewhere of the
raids made by certain birds on the columns of the “ safari ” ant,
Dorylus. The Cossypha is equally proficient as is the Tarsiger
in this daylight robbery. It is at such times that one sees the
birds out of their retirement of thick undergrowth, but if dis-
turbed they at once seek cover, but remain in the vicinity and
call. Though retiring in habits, they are not wild, in fact if one
penetrates into thick undergrowth where they are, one can
approach quite close to them and it is with difficulty that one
can get them to move sufficiently far away so as to avoid damag-
ing the bird if one desires to shoot it.

At the time of our visit to the Chyulu range, April-July, the
nesting season was just over and nestlings were on the wing
though still attended, in many cases, by their parents.

Taxonomic Notes.

I am satisfied from the extensive material available that
heuglini and semirufa are two distinct species, each with their
geographical races. This is contrary to the possibility cited by
Friedmann and Loveridge (Bull. Comp. Zool ., Vol. 81, No. 1, p.
250, 1937) as follows: “The forms of . . . semirufa are very
closely allied to heuglini , and it may well be they are all one
species.”

There is a considerable overlap in the distribution of the
races of both species, thus on Kilimanjaro both are found, as
they are in the forests round Nairobi, but each has its own
environment and thus ecologically separated, but not to such a
degree as to suggest that they are one species. Friedmann, op.
cit., draws attention to semirufa of Kilimanjaro and suggests that
these birds may not be the race intercedens, but Cf. Moreau,
P.Z.S., part 4, 1936. I have five Kilimanjaro birds before
me, the long series from Chyulu, specimens from Mt. Kenya to
Nairobi and Kitui (type loc.) and I cannot see any characters on
which to separate the Kilimanjaro birds. The colouration of
the mantle is not constant; in nine out of 14 males from Chyulu
this area is dark slatey-grey, in the rest this area is washed with

olive to a greater or less degree. Of the females only two are
grey, the remainder, eight, are strongly olive washed. There is
just such variation in the Kilimanjaro and other birds. In twenty
of the Chyulu birds there is a strong tendency for the orange
tawny of the sides of the neck to extend back and encircle the
neck below the black of the occiput; this is found in Kilimanjaro
birds, so also in Fort Hall birds.

Wing measurements give the following:

Chyulu: Males, 90-95 mm.; av. 91 mm. Females, 82-98 mm.;
85 mm.

Kilimanjaro: Males, 92-95 mm. Females, 65 mm.

Kiambu, Fort Hall, Nairobi: Males, 90-93 mm. Females,
82-93 mm.

Kitui: Males, 90 mm. Females, 82 mm.

COSSYPHA CAFFRA IOLAEMA , Reichw. Red-breasted

Cossypha.

The Red-breasted Cossypha or Robin was found to be rather
scarce as during our stay only a dozen birds were seen. Two
were obtained for record purposes. All the birds noted were
found on the northern end of the range, 5,500 feet, and none
seemed to exist in the Great Forest. Insects only were recovered
from the stomachs. The concensus of opinion seems to be that
C. i. mawensis, Neum., is not a valid race. I have no decided
opinion on this point and await more Kilimanjaro material.

Friedmann and Loveridge state (Bull. Comp. Zool., 81, No. 1,
1937, p. 252, that “ in the east it does not occur north of Kilima-
njaro.” This is incorrect, as Chyulu birds are from N.E. of that
mountain. Friedmann knows of no record from Mt. Kenya, but
birds from that mountain are in my collection.

SAXICOLA TORQUATA AXILLARIS, Shelley. Kilimanjaro

Stone Chat.

The Kenya Stone Chat was plentiful throughout the range,
frequenting the open moorland and grass slopes from 6,800 feet
to 4,000 feet. It was particularly in evidence on areas which
had recently been burnt off leaving the sprouting grass exposed
and the scorched stems of the woody herbs standing bare. From
the latter vantage points these little birds darted down to snap
up any insect which made itself visible. In such locations they
fed largely on larval or nymphal forms of the smaller grass-
hoppers as examination of stomachs of shot specimens showed.
They were also very active when the flying forms of white ants
appeared. No highland scene is complete without these birds,
and the Chyulu Hills had their fair quota of the species. Where

the grass was long and rank, one found the Chats at the edges of
the forest patches perched on the top of the dead stems of
Leonotis, a" plant which grew in profusion along the forest
margins. The Chyulu birds were confiding and tame and took
hardly any notice of one in passing them. The nesting season
was well over in April (third week) and all the young were
fending for themselves.

The race axillaris was described from Mt. Kilimanjaro and
the specimens on Chyulu agree with that form. Granvik (JrZ.
fur. Omith., Feb., 1923) wrote at length on the variability of this
Stone Chat within Eastern Africa and suggested that axillaris
was not sufficiently separable from salax of Gaboon. Recent
authors have maintained the validity of the Kilimanjaro bird,
and with this I agree.

The material I have from the Mau, particularly the females,
run very much larger than Uganda or Chyulu birds and are
much browner above and more uniform brown below. The
series is very uniform, as are the Chyulu birds, and suggestive
of a good local race. More material from the Mau is required.

POGONOCICHLA STELLATA MACARTHURI. Subsp. Nov.

Chyulu White-starred Tarsiger.

This bird was one of the commonest species of the forest
undergrowth and was found in practically all the smaller forest
patches as well as the bigger blocks and was exceedingly plenti-
ful in the Great Chyulu forest of the southern end of the range.
The altitudinal range varied from 4,500 feet to over 7,000 feet.

Not only was it conspicuous on account of its brilliant plum-
age, but its very confiding and withal inquisitive habits, brought
it to one's notice at all times. Furthermore, its presence was
made known by its low song and chatter. When one was
engaged in cutting traverses through the forests several of these
birds would appear along the track already cut, or would flit
about the under-bush as the workers progressed. Very often
they would perch within a couple of feet of one, and as the
insects were disturbed by the cutting of the bush, they would
dart hither and thither. The insects were taken both on the
wing and on the ground.

Although for the most part terrestrial they are adepts at
catching flying insects. Unaided, quite a proportion of their
insect food is taken by rummaging amongst the decaying vegeta-
tion and leaves of the forest floor. Most stomachs examined con-
tained insects, either mature or in the larval stages, as well as
spiders and small mollusca, and occasionally a few small berries.

Two notes or songs were noted. The song is an oft-repeated
“ tu-we tu-we ti-ti,” whilst the note uttered when disturbed is

like the noise made in a wooden ratchet turning the arm slowly
over the teeth or cogs, “ pirut pirut ” repeated frequently.

This was one of the late nesting species on the range, for
whereas practically all the young birds of other species had left
their nests and were fending for themselves, young of this
species were found as nestlings or accompanied and still fed by
their parents. The nests found were in a cleft or hollow of a
moss-grown tree trunk or tree stump; composed of mosses and
lined with fern and orchid roots. No eggs were found, but
nestlings a week old were located on two occasions. The nests
certainly blended with the rest of the moss-covered tree, but the
actual situation of the tree was often quite exposed with little
or no herbage nearby. One nest was located at the base of a
clump of fern growing on the base of a partially fallen tree.

I more than once heard these birds warbling late in the
night, especially when there was a moon, and they were cer-
tainly one of the first species to give voice in the early mornings
at sunrise. One pair frequented the outskirts of our camp^
kitchen and took odd fragments of food thrown to them, such as
bits of meat and rice. At Camp 3 a pair exhibited their fearless-
ness of man by perching close beside me while I broke up a
rotten log infested with white ants. As bits of the wood were
broken oft and tossed aside, the birds would hop down and pick
off the ants one after the other with extreme rapidity. This
species is one of those who raid the columns of the “ safari ” ants.
It was a common occurrence to note three or four of these birds
in the vicinity of the trail. With daring and considerable,
accuracy they would dart or hop to the side of the trail, seize
the insect or larva being carried along by the ants, jerk the
morsel against the ground to rid it of its attendant ant and
swallow it, or if young were in the underbush nearby, fly and
push it down the youngster’s throat with scant ceremony, and
return to the fray. Needless to say, a column of ants much
worried by attendant birds (and several species take part in
these robberies) very soon becomes infuriated and the soldiers
will move out of the column to protect the workers; but the birds
are usually too quick in their actions to suffer from attack. The
strong bristles at the comer of the bird’s mouth protect them
when picking up prey.

In spite of the brilliant yellow of the underparts as seen
when the bird is near the ground, when they are disturbed from
the forest floor and ascend to the mid-growth or perch among
the tangle of lianas, they are difficult to detect; the yellow breast
harmonises with the vegetation and the dark head breaks the
contour. It may be noted in passing that the characteristic
silvery-white spot on the lower throat is not visible when the

bird is at rest, but is a conspicuous feature when the bird is
warbling, for the throat is then extended. In general carriage
and demeanour, the Tarsiger reminds one forcibly of the English
Robin; the wings are generally carried depressed below the
slightly upraised tail, which is frequently “ flirted ” or expanded,
and the body held rather upright. It is an altogether charming
species.

Taxonomic Note.

Confusion has revolved round this species, due partly to the
fact that the species has three distinct phases of plumage;
adult, sub-adult, and nestling, each being distinctive. More-
over the species is subject to geographical variation into races
but in most cases the differences are not striking.

The birds from the Chyulu Range are geographically inter-
mediate between the Kenya race keniensis , Meams, a race which
is not recognised by Sclater, and guttifer, Reichw. and Neum,,
of Kilimanjaro.

First of all, a critical examination of the very large series of
this species, 200 specimens, leads me to support keniensis. To
the south-east of Chyulu is the Mbololo Hill from whence came
the type helleri Mearns. I am assured by Moreau (in lit.) on the
authority of Kinnear of the B.M. that the Teita birds do not differ
from orientaiis, Fischer and Reichw,, of the Usambara Range.

The Coryndon Museum now has a series from Mt. Mbololo,
topotypical helleri (12 skins).

Description: A careful examination of the Chyulu birds
shows them to be paler, clearer yellow below than orientaiis
(including helleri), paler yellow on the rump and upper and
under tail-coverts. The yellow on the tail is purer; the green of
the mantle is a purer green; the colour of the head is darker.
They are thus different to the race guttifer of Kilimanjaro, which
has a darker yellow under side and the green of the back is
washed with golden, and quite distinct from keniensis.

Type: Male, Chyulu Range, 7,000 feet, 1/5/38, in forest
undergrowth, Coryndon Museum Expedition, 1938.

Remarks : Forty adult paratypes were taken and also a long
series of sub-adults and birds in nestling plumage.

Wing measurements: Males 82-86, average 84 mm.; females
75-82, average 77 mm.

Taking the Tarsigers of Eastern Africa as a whole we find
that we can divide them into two main groups, those with
golden-olive backs and those with olive-green mantles. Into
the former fall:

ruwenzori , Grant. Mt. Ruwenzori, Kivu, Kigezi. A small
bird with dark breast, a very small white throat-patch,
and hardly any, a mere trace of the white supra-orbital
mark.

elgonensis, Grant. Mt. Elgon. Birds with, in the adult,
uniform black tails.

keniensis, Mearns. The golden olive of the back is lighter
than in guttifer, Kenya, Aberdares, Mau, Kikuyu. The
plumage of the nestlings also differs, so also the sub-
adult.

guttifer , Reichw. and Neum., Mt. Kilimanjaro. Darker on
the mantle and head than keniensis. Young differ from
keniensis.

In the second category come:

orientalis ( helleri ), Fischer and Reichw., Usambara, interior
of T.T. (Morogoro). The olive-green of the back with-
out strong golden wash; and underside darker yellow
than macarthuri.

macarthuri, van Someren, Chyulu Range. Paler yellow
below, greener on the mantle; head darker, the young
in nestling plumage, and still more in sub-adult, which
is strongly olive below with narrow yellow streaking.

It is not out of place here to draw attention to the three
distinct phases of plumage which is exhibited in each of the
races of this species. This is the more desirable since it is pos-
sible to differentiate the races on the plumage of the nestling
and sub-adult, when the adults show only very slight, though
constant differences.

The first or nestling plumage is a spotted one in all the races
within eastern Africa, such spotting extending from the crown
to the upper tail-coverts on the upper side, and from the chin to
the vent and under tail-coverts below. The greater and lesser
wing coverts are also spotted at their tips. In this stage there is a
decided difference in the general tone both of the ground colour
and the spots in the various races I have mentioned.

The spotted plumage gives way by moult to a stage in
which the whole of the upper surface becomes a uniform olive-
green, with or without any golden tinge, according to race; the
upper tail-coverts are only slightly less green than the mantle;
the underside becomes more mottled than spotted, and this
change is due to a moult. The future white throat spot is indi-
cated by an area of whitish or yellow, occupying a larger area
than the ultimate characteristic silvery white triangular spot,
and if a specimen is viewed from the side, this pale area shows

as a pale gorget or fore-neck band. I mention this because of
the controversy over the true interpretation of Levaillant’s
figure of stellata.

The sequence of moult from nestling to sub-adult is clearly
shown in the very long series of fifty-odd in these stages.

From the spotted to sub-adult, the first area to change is
that of the upper mantle and nape; this is followed by a re-
placement of the head and rump feathers and of the upper
breast; the change gradually extends to the whole head and
underparts and then the wings. For quite a long period the
spotted feathers are retained on the scapular and lower mantle.
It is as well to mention here that in the case of elgonensis, which
in the adult has a uniform black tail, in the young and sub-
adult the bases of the rectrices are yellow to a varying degree.

The subsequent moult from sub-adult to adult is more diffi-
cult to follow owing to a remarkable lack of these intermediates,
for out of the long series of well over 100 specimens, only two
show traces of the sub-adult plumage as evidenced by the reten-
tion of olive-green feathering on the crown, the mottling on the
throat and remains of mottled feathers on the chest. The sub-
adult wing-coverts and also tail feathers are still retained. It
would appear that the wing and rectrices are not changed until
after the body plumage has been renewed by moult, the replace-
ment of the tail following that of the wings.

I have dealt with the sequence of plumages at length because
Friedmann and Loveridge have suggested (Bull. M. Comp. Zool.,
Vol. 81, p. 257) that the plumage of orientalis “ is more uniform
green above, not as spotted as in guttifer, which form can
hardly be told from the present ( orientalis ) in adult birds.” I
can only suggest that Loveridge only collected sub-adult or
immature and not nestling plumaged birds and has mistaken
them for the latter.

It is true, however, as I have indicated previously, that the
visible differences between the, at present, recognised races of
Pogonocichla are corroborated by equal or greater differences in
the plumages of the nestlings and sub-adult, if young of similar
and comparable age are examined.

SYLVIIDAE.

PHYLLOSCOPUS TROCHILUS TROCHILUS European

and Willow Warbler.

PHYLLOSCOPUS COLLYBITA ABIETINA. Scandinavian

Chiffchaff.

During the first two weeks of our stay on the range, April
19th to 30th these two species were frequently noted in the

smaller forest patches. It was of course impossible to estimate
the relative numbers of each. One noted them as associating
with Zosterops and Seicercus, and the similarity of behaviour
between the last and Phylloscopus was marked. The only
species of migrant which remained in evidence after the end of
April was the European Swallow.

SYLVIA COMMUNIS COMMUNIS European Whitethroat.
and

SYLVIA BORIN. European Garden Warbler.

In the early morning of April 20th about twenty of these
birds were noted in a small Erythrina association, together with
a few Garden Warblers. They remained throughout that day
but had moved on by the following morning.

SYLVIA ATRICAPXLLA. European Blackcap.

This species was recorded on April 23rd when two birds
were seen near the only water drip of the entire range at about
5 p.m.

EREMOMELA GRISEOFLAVA nr. ABDOMINALIS.

Chyulu Yellow-bellied Scrub Warbler.

In the Erythrina association and the scattered bush country
of the upper lava flows, this species was met with in pairs or
small groups of half a dozen. They were always engaged in
hunting insects amongst the Erythrina flowers or those of the
wild Clematis and Acacia blooms. They were always on the
move and kept up a low “ see see ” call. In action they remind
one of the Penduline Tits but are perhaps not so restless, more
deliberate in their movements.

Taxonomic Notes.

Amongst a long series of the race abdominalis I find none so
pure grey from crown to rump as these Chyulu birds nor with
throats so pure white, thus contrasting more with the greyish
breast band; it is possible that they represent a distinct montane
race.

The distribution map by Friedmann in Bull. 153, U.S. Nat.
Mus. is incorrect in such respects as those I gave on page 370,
Nov. Zool.y 1932. Thus he shows the race abdominalis as occupy-
ing Ukambani-Masai area only, but the type locality is Tabora
district over which he depicts the race crawfurdi , in other words
the distribution of race 6 is too far extended south and race 5
should extend to the west and south of 6 to include Tabora
district, Morogoro, and Dodoma. As regards Friedmann’s race
4, embracing two, flavicrissalis and erlangeri, the distribution of
the latter (which has far more yellow on the abdomen than the

former) would cut across that of the former or be included within
it. I can only presume that Friedmann does not trust my identi-
fications. Friedmann’s remark that crawfurdi is a paler form is
apt to be misleading, for it is a much darker bird above than
abdominalis though the yellow of the abdomen is paler, further
it is not the only race with a whitish superciliary stripe; two
birds from Morogoro have this character and they are not craw-
furdi but near abdominalis if not identical with it.

SYLVIETTA WHYTII LORINGI. Chyulu Stump-tail Warbler.

Very few of this species were seen on the hills, and these
were limited to the Erythrina clumps and Acacias of the lower
lava flows, 4,000-5,500 feet. They are silent little birds for the
most part; intent on their search for insects they will often allow
one to come within a few feet of them; or, if one is taking shelter
under a tree, the birds will work the branches just over one’s
head with unconcern.

Taxonomic Note.

Looking up the latest literature containing reference to the
group of Sylvietta of the whytii aggregate I find that Friedmann,
op. cit., 1937, has to a certain extent agreed with my findings as
recorded in 1932, except that he hesitates to recognise the validity
of ftscheri of the coastal belt of Kenya. He, however, supports
loringi, Mearns, for the aggregate which represents the species
between ftscheri of the coast and jacksoni of the Kenya high-
lands. One notes, however, that Sclater and Moreau refer birds
from Ngare-Nairobi, Kilimanjaro to jacksoni as also birds from
Marang and Nou, Mbulu district.

The identifications of these Mbulu birds are correct so far
as my limited material from about that area goes (Oldowai) and
it is to be presumed that the Ngare-Nairobi birds are part of the
intermediate aggregate between jacksoni and ftscheri. I pre-
sume this because specimens from Moshi and the Chyulu Hills,
Taveta, east to Voi, are of this intermediate class. Sclater, how-
ever, in the “ Systema,” makes loringi a synonym of jacksoni ,
which in my opinion is a mistake.

SEICERCUS UMBRO VIRENS CHYULU. Subsp. Nov.

Chyulu Green-winged Brown Fly catcher- War bier,

In all the forests of the Chyulu range this W illo w-W arbier-
like bird was plentiful; its charming behaviour and not un-
pleasant call were features of the forest life of the hills. It was
most plentiful in the larger forests at altitudes varying from
5,000 feet to 7,200 feet, and though often noted in the canopy,
especially those larger trees with masses of tangled lianas, it

was equally at home in the thick creepers which bound the
trees at the edge of the forest. It makes a variety of calls: a
simple “ pee*piri,” or a series of clear notes like “ chui chui chee
chee chee ” or “ tui-tui twee twee twee,” either simple or with
little trills. It takes the greater part of its food by hunting
amongst the leaves, branches, and creepers on the trees, but it
will on occasion flash out after some insect which has escaped
it, and seize it in mid air in the manner of a fly-catcher. This
is one of the birds which appears to have no fear of man, for
times without number a pair which would be hunting the trail-
ing creepers of trees near which I was sitting would come within
a foot or so of my head and pass by as though I had not existed.

Old nests were found but no eggs; all the young were on the
wing, and some of those noted and obtained could not have been
long from the nest. But for the browner backs these young
could easily, and in fact were mistaken for the migratory Willow
Warbler during the short time these migrants were still on the
range. The underside of the young Seicercus is strongly washed
with yellow.

Fifty odd of these little birds were collected, many of them
by accident, for in the depths of the forest it was almost impos-
sible to differentiate between the small birds moving about at
the tops of the trees.

Taxonomic Note.

In seeking to place the birds from the Chyulu Range, some
fifty odd examples, I have laid out the entire series of the species
in its distribution from Elgon, through Kenya, to Kilimanjaro
and the Pare range. Each of the races is represented by long
series, and Mr. Moreau has supplied me with material from the
Pare.

First of all I should like to record my views on the two
described races mackenziana and dorcadichrous, the former
represented by birds from Elgon, Mau, Kikuyu, the latter by
Kilimanjaro birds. My ample series shows that these are separ-
able, and I maintain the races.

Description: The Chyulu birds are described as follows:
Very much darker on the head and dorsum than mackenzianay
lacking the rufous tinge of that race; much less rufescent on the
sides of the nead and sides of the body. From dorcadichrous
they differ in being much darker particularly on the head, more
buffy-grey on the sides of the head and flanks; and purer white
on the abdomen; the undertail coverts are strongly lemon yellow
while the edging to the coverts, secondaries, and primaries, and
tail feathers are purer green less yellow-green. The dorsum
feathers are narrowly edged with greenish.

Type: Male, Chyulu Range, 6,000-7,200 feet, 21/6/38.

Coryndon Museum Expedition, 1938. Paratypes fifty-four.

Remarks: For the time being I associate with these birds a
dark race from the Pare, sent to me by Mr. Moreau. They are
still darker on the head, and some may desire to recognise them
as a further race. I think it would be a mistake to select one
of the Pare birds as the type of the Chyulu race, the more so that
in dealing with this Chyulu material as a whole, I find it to
represent in many cases races which are apparently limited to
that range.

SEICERCUS RUFICAPILLA MBOLOLO. Subsp. Nov.

Closely allied to minulla, Reichw., of Usambara, but differing
from that race by its lighter olive-brown crown; slightly paler
mantle; more yellow ear-coverts; wider extension of the yellow
on the throat, this colour extending on to the breast and abdo-
men but in a paler shade of yellow. The grey of the underside,
on the side of the breast and flanks, being just a wash, thus one
would not describe the underside as grey. Type: Male, Mt.
Mbololo, Oct., 1938, 5,000 feet.

Distribution : Mt. Mbololo, Eastern Teita Range. Paratypes,
six adults. Compared with typical minulla kindly supplied by
R. E. Moreau.

MELOCICHLA MENTALIS CHYULU. Chyulu Great

Moustached Warbler.

Here and there along the forest edges where the tall grass
merged into the fringing woody herbage, and in the ravines of
the moorland where the grass was often shoulder high, this
species was noted. It was difficult to procure except in the early
mornings or late afternoon; at these times one might see the
birds sitting on the grass stems enjoying the sunrise or the
dwindling rays of the setting sun. During the day they were
hidden, or if seen it was just for a moment and they disappeared
into the grass.

The only note I have as to the call of this bird is that it is
like a throaty gurgle ending with a higher note and interpreted
as “ kluk kluk kluk cheir.”

Taxonomic Note.

Comparing the specimens from Chyulu with a long series of
orientalis and the Uganda race amaurora, I find them to differ.
Before detailing these differences I should make it clear that I
associate the Kenya coastal birds with orientalis described from
the Pangani River. They are more rufous above and more
rufous below than amaurora. The intermediates occur over a
considerable area of junction of the two forms.

In seeking to find a name applicable to the Chyulu birds,
I find kilimensis , Madaraz, founded on birds from Moshi. I have
a series from this locality, and they agree with the coastal race
orientalis.

The Chyulu birds are nearest geographically to orientalis
but differ from that race in being considerably darker above,
more olivaceous, but less rufous on the breast and flanks, even
paler than the race amaurora. The ear-covers are a darker
brown than in orientalis , and the rectrices are black, but greyish
tipped on the underside. Rump and upper tail-coverts only
slightly more rufous than the mantle.

The Chyulu birds represent a dark montane form with an
altitude range of 5,500-7,000 feet.

Type: Male, Chyulu Range, 26/6/38. Coryndon Museum
Expedition, 1938. Paratypes, five males, three females. Size
smaller, 70-73 mm.

BRADYPTERUS CINN AMOMEU S CHYULUENSIS.

Subsp. Nov. Chyulu Cinnamon Warbler.

The Cinnamon forest warbler was often seen on the high
ridge of the Chyulu hills at elevations of 6,000-7,200, but not in
such numbers as the Brown Warbler. It was unfortunate that
a long series was not collected, due entirely to the fact that of
the various races already described many writers have asserted
that there is no distinctive size or colour variation limited to
any particular area and have treated all as one race.

Taxonomic Note.

I have laid out all my material of this species, some fifty
odd specimens, and I cannot find any which agree with the
Chyulu birds. Knowing the various views published, to the
effect that many of the described races are untenable, I have
gone very carefully into the matter. So far as the Kenya
representatives of the species are concerned there is some varia-
tion and according to Sclater they cannot be disassociated from
the Abyssinian nominate race.

I am satisfied that one can admit as distinct (a) the birds
found in the Kivu-Kigezi area, (b) the birds of Kilimanjaro, (c)
the birds of the Chyulu range.

Description: Allied to rufoflavidus of Kilimanjaro, the

Chyulu birds are very much darker on the back from crown to
rump, almost as dark as B. mariae; certainly as dark as B.
hrachypterus of Kenya; crown slightly darker than the mantle;
wings and rectrices darker than in any other race; the cinnamon
colour of the breast band and flanks is, however, duller; throat
and centre of abdomen white. Type: Male, Chyulu Range,

7,000 feet, 5/5/38. Coryndon Museum Expedition, 1938. Para-
types 4.

Remarks: In view of the controversy over the distinctness
of several named racial forms, it might appear unwise to describe
yet another race, but I cannot match these dark Chyulu birds
with any of the long series of more than fifty birds from Elgon
southwards.

BRADYPTERUS MARIAE, Mad. Chyulu Forest Warbler.

In the great Chyulu forest of the southern end of the range,
and in its extension along the western aspect of the hills, this
bird was very plentiful in the sodden and constantly wet under-
growth. Indeed it might with truth be said that it was the
common bird of the undergrowth. On all occasions it was noted
and its distinctive note was heard on all sides. Its elevation
range was 5,500 to 7,200 feet and although plentiful in the south-
ern part of the range it was entirely absent in the forests of the
north and central portions which are drier with less dense
undergrowth. On many occasions I noted that these birds had
a trait common to Bradypterus brachyterus centralis , that of
calling in duet. This has been noted also by Moreau in the case
of B . usambarae.

My notes record the calls as “ tiku tiku tiku tik ” or “ Cheetu
cheetu ” and “ cheu-cheet cheet.” Moreau likens the call to “ chi-
chew ” or “ pi-pew ” for usambarae , thus somewhat alike.

The general behaviour of this bird is similar to that of the
Kenya highland race named by me altumi (Cf. note hereafter).
They creep — one can use no other word to express their move-
ments— about the undergrowth and pick off insects from the
stems and leaves of the plants and where soaking wet lianas and
beard moss descend some way down a tree trunk one may note
them searching through the tangle. Stomach contents showed
that not only did they eat insects but also small spiral mollusca
which were plentiful on the undersides of leaves of the Piper
which formed the bulk of the forest undergrowth. These birds
were concentrated in many places where the forest trees did not
extend so as to cover the floor of the crater. In such localities the
undergrowth was almost pure Piper growing to 8 and 10 feet
high, and here several birds might be noted.

Taxonomic Note.

There has been considerable confusion over these forest
Bradypterus, and for this reason a long series of over 60 examples
was taken on the Chyulu Range. The series represents three
phases in the plumage of the bird : adult, sub-adult, and juvenile.
In the first or nestling plumage, the underside is strongly

suffused with olive from the throat and cheeks to the mid-breast
and abdomen, with the flanks olive-brown. The dorsum is very
similar to the adults but duller, and of course, the texture of the
feathers is different.

In the sub-adult, most of the olive is lost on the underside
except for a slight trace along the mid-line; the throat is whitish,
with olive flecks; the remainder of the underside is more uniform
ashy-brown than in adults; on the mantle, there is a distinct
greyish tinge. The rich dark brown of the adult is assumed by
a body moult and at the same time the wing and tail feathers
are replaced, the latter being shed first. The tail feathers, ten
in number, are narrow and “ decomposed,” and graduated.

In attempting to assign these Chyulu birds to a given species,
I have consulted all available literature and examined all allied
birds as we find them within Kenya and the adjacent parts of
Tanganyika Territory.

First of all there seems no doubt that the bird I described as
mitoni from the Moshi River forest is identical with mariae of
Madaraz described from Kiboscho, Kilimanjaro, as stated by
Moreau. Mitoni is retained as a species in “ Jackson’s Birds,”
but this was due to lack of comparative material.

Sclater, in the “ Sy sterna,” makes mariae a race of barratti ,
Sharpe. A closely allied bird is altumi described by me from
Molo, with a distribution from Mau to Mt. Kenya. I associate
with this race, specimens recently obtained by Meinertzhagen
and referred by him to mariae (Ibis, 1937), thus indicating a close
relationship between Kilimanjaro and Mt. Kenya birds. Thus
far, the association appears straightforward, but on consulting
Friedmann in Bull. 153, U.S. Nat. Mus., p. 166, we find he asso-
ciates my altumi as closely allied with fraterculus, Meams, from
Kikuyu Escarpment. Furthermore, he places fraterculus as a
race of alfredi which came from west of Lake iUbert. We find
on pages 166-167 a statement to the effect that the type of
fraterculus is a bird with 10 rectrices (although he admits that
the type has had all bar one feather shot out), associating with it
a female from Mt. Kenya with this number. Friedmann is at
pains to show this characteristic of fraterculus , but on page 170
he associates it with a species which has 12 tail feathers! This
seems to me very strange and contradictory. The bird identified
by Og. Grant as alfredi, Trans. Zool. Soc., VoL XIX, and there
figured, has 12 rectrices. This bird was subsequently made a race
and described as albicrissalis by Neumann. My altumi is a bird
with 10 narrow tail feathers. On page 171, Friedmann places
fraterculus and usambarae as races of the same species.

SCHOENICOLA BREVIROSTRIS CHYULU. Subsp. Nov.

Chyulu Fan-tailed Grass Warbler.

This very remarkable Warbler, remarkable for its excessive
tail, was not uncommon in the tall grass moorlands of the range.
One would imagine that a tail of this length and breadth would
hamper the bird in its movements among the grass especially
when the vegetation was wet and the tail, as one knows, becomes
bedraggled.

As one walked through the grass these birds would be flushed
one here, one there, to drop after a very short flight. If one
noted the spot where they landed and walked them up, it was
a one in ten chance that they would be flushed again. It would
seem that on landing they creep through the grass rapidly and
then lie quiet.

It is probable that the length and width of the tail is then
of assistance, for it would bear them up somewhat as they moved
through the grass stalks. This we know to be so in the case
of the long-tailed lined Skink which abounded in the grass-lands.

These birds make two calls, a sharp “ prit prit ” varied with
a “ seesee ” and a rattling note which rises and falls.

Taxonomic Note.

Several students of East African ornithology have discussed
the validity of the several races described for this bird through-
out its distribution, and on the whole have come to the conclu-
sion that the Uganda birds represent a darker race of the nomi-
nate South African form. These Uganda-Kenya birds may be
known by the name alexinae, Heulg., type loc. Gazelle River,
which antedates brunneiceps, Reichenow, type locality Acholi.
I thus support Bannerman in B.B.O.C., lvii, p. 70.

If one compares these twelve Chyulu birds with a similar
series from Uganda and Kenya Highlands, it is noticeable that
the Chyulu birds are darker than the darkest Uganda bird, the
brown of the mantle having an olive tinge whilst the crown is
decidedly grey olive tinged. The tone of the crown is consider-
ably darker than that of the mantle. The wings and tails are
even blacker. The sides of the breast and flanks are washed
with olive, not so pale ochreous; the ear-coverts are darker.
Type Female, Chyulu Hills, 5,600, 10/6/38. Coryndon Museum
Expedition, 1938. Cotypes 11 specimens. Alt. range 5,500-7,000
feet.

C. Grant (in lit.) supports the race alexinae , and suggests
that the Chyulu birds are of this race, but I consider them to be
distinctly darker. He suggests that the Chyulu birds are dark-

ened by burnt grass; but even when they are cleaned up the
darkness remains, and I am satisfied that it is not due to staining.

I have submitted these Chyulu birds to Moreau, who writes
as follows: “I laid out your skins (six Chyulu, six Kenya-
Uganda birds) and after trying one or two other things — all of
course ‘blind’ so far as the labels were concerned — I made a divi-
sion with no hesitation, on head colour. I then found I had five
Chyulu skins and no others in the ‘ grey headed group,’ only one
was an approach to the ‘ ginger headed ’ group.”

CAMAROPTERA BREVICAUDATA GRISEIGULA <

ERLANGERI. Chyulu Green-winged Bush Warbler.

These birds were plentiful in the undergrowth of the lesser
forests on the Chyulu hills but did not occur in the Great Chyulu
Forest. They were more numerous at lower altitudes, round
about the 4,000-5,500 level. Their characteristic “ mewing ” note
was often heard.

It is difficult to determine these birds as referable to a given
race inasmuch as they have the characters of the coastal race
erlangeri, of which albiventris, Granvik, is a synonym, and some
of the characters of that unfortunate intermediate aggregate
named by Sharpe, griseigula, type loc. Voi River. I have written
at length on these birds in Nov. Zool., 1932, and this additional
material only strengthens my views already expressed.

PRINIA MYSTACEA. Long-tailed Wren Warbler.

This species was plentiful all along the forest edges in pairs
or small lots of parents and young. Their characteristic be-
haviour and call was a feature of the forest margins. Being an
abundant species insufficient attention was paid to them. This
is unfortunate for these Chyulu birds exhibit a darker, more
oliye tinged plumage on the head and mantle than any in a long
series from the Kenya highlands; furthermore, the white super-
ciliary stripe is very well marked. I hesitate to place them as
the race immutabilis and they are distinct from the coast birds
tenella. Five birds were collected, all uniform, except for one
young in sub-adult plumage

APALIS FLAVOCINTA. Long-tailed Yellow-banded Warbler.

A few examples of this species were noted in the more open
forest patches and along the forest edges. Tails 61 mm.; wings
50 mm. Range 5,000-7,000 feet.

APALIS Sp.

A single specimen of an interesting Apalis, probably near
moschi, van Someren, was the only one seen. It is sexed as a
male and is probably not mature. It remains one of the indeter-
minable species of the range.

APALIS GRISEICEPS CHYULU. Subsp. Nov.

Chyulu Bar-throated Forest Warbler.

These little birds were actually plentiful in the larger forests
but owing to their habits were easily overlooked unless one was
deliberately in search of them. Thus after the first few were
obtained and the exact type of place to look for them was noted,
we had no difficulty in obtaining a good series. As there has
been some considerable discussion as to the species and races of
these little birds. I paid particular attention to them. There
are now forty odd examples from the Chyulu hills.

These birds are for the most part to be found in the canopy
of the forest, but not in every sort of tree. I found them to be
partial to those which were heavily encircled with lianas so
much so that one could not actually see daylight through them.
It was here that one noted the birds; merely a slight movement
as the bird crossed some small opening in the foliage. One had
then to wait for perhaps quarter to half an hour before they
appeared on the margin of the creepers or having worked
through them to the lower side of the canopy. Incessantly on
the move, one has little time to aim; it was a case of directing
the shot as quickly as possible toward the spot where movement
had taken place. Occasionally, and particularly after an early
shower of rain in the afternoon, one might find these birds hunt-
ing over the lichen and beard-moss-covered branches of tall trees
toward the edge of the forest, or in the creepers around their
trunks. It was then that one could observe them. Minute
insects and spiders were all that one found in their stomachs.

Taxonomic Note.

Differs from griseiceps from Kilimanjaro, by their purer
green, more leaf-green, less yellowish tinged, mantles; the crown
and cheeks ashy-grey, not brownish-ashy; the margins of the
wing-coverts and wing feathers purer green; the colour of the
abdomen is a clear lemon-yellow, separated from the black
collar by a pure-white area; loral spot black.

Type: Male, Chyulu Hills, 26/6/38, 5,800 feet. Coryndon
Museum Expedition, 1938. Paratypes forty-three specimens.

Remarks : This series has been compared with typical grisei-
ceps from Kilimanjaro. There is some slight variation in the
colour of the heads and out of this series only three show an

approach to the Kilimanjaro race, but they exhibit the other
characters which differentiate them.

I am in agreement with the recent division advocated by
Grant, Ibis , 1938, that there are two species of these Apalis
exhibiting similar general characters, the one species having
green mantles, the other grey, murina, Reichenow. It has been
remarked by Friedmann and Loveridge, Bull. Comp. Zool., 1937,
that altitude does not appear to be the dividing factor between
the species, for both are found at similar altitudes.

The altitude range of the Chyulu race is 5,000-7,200 feet on
the Chyulu Range.

CISTICOLA NATALENSIS. Subsp.? Large Striped

Grass Warbler.

Two species of Cisticola were plentiful throughout the grass
moorlands of the Chyulu Hills; of the two, a race of natalensis
was less in evidence. Only one other species was noted. Usually
the first indication one had of the presence of the bird was its
distinctive cail which, on account of its periodicity came to be
known as the Clock Bird. One first of all heard the repeated
call “ Click clock ” and scanning the grass land with a pair of
binoculars, looking particularly at any projecting herb, one
would pick out a cock bird sitting on the topmost twig of a hidden
bush. They were timid, and seldom allowed one to approach
very near. If flushed they flew some distance and again took
up their position on the top of a bush; they seldom went to the
tops of the Erythrina trees though in some places they could
have done so. The song (sic) was a combination of the call with
three other notes as “ q-q-eh.”

Taxonomic Note.

This bird belongs to the natalensis group, and naturally one
compares it with three possible races : valida which according to
Lynes extends from Uganda, through Tanganyika and along the
Kenya coastal strip (I personally do not accept this last area
within its distribution); kapitensis of the Athi Plains south to
Ukamba, and north to Mt. Kenya, not recorded from the Masai
country to the south, but at Simba. We may dismiss the coastal
birds, as they bear no resemblance to the Chyulu birds. The
race kapitensis is said by Lynes to have a perennial dress, and
occasionally a non-breeding plumage. We find that the series
collected contains 14 adults breeding or just finished; 11 adults
in non-breeding dress; eight young in the juvenile sulphured
yellow-breast stage. It is interesting to note, then, that on the

Chyulu range, natalensis has a seasonal dress, which can be
differentiated from the breeding dress; and in this way: that
whereas in the breeding dress the margins to the mantle feathers
are greyish; in the non-breeding they are sandy or buffy,and so the
striping on the back is bolder; the tails in the non-breeding dress
are longer. This plumage is not to be confused with the juvenile
which has the sulphured underside.

Taken as a whole the Chyulu adults exhibit a stronger,
wider, and more black streaking of the head and mantle; the
head is boldly streaked and redder, and thus different from
kapitensis. Nevertheless one old male and two females who
have just finished breeding and very much worn are hardly to
be distinguished from typical kapitensis.

Nowt as regards the breeding season on the Chyulu Hills. It
can be stated that but for parents with young still being fed, the
egg-laying period was over by the end of March, thus much
earlier than for this race (if we unite it with kapitensis) in the
northern parts of its range.

Reverting to the presence of a non-breeding dress as found
on this range of mountains, it is of interest to note that on Elgon,
seven out of 14 birds taken by Granvik had this reversion to a
winter or non-breeding dress. One is led to speculate as to
whether altitude and thus greater variation in temperature has
an effect on the modes of dress. The Chyulu birds have an
altitude variation of 5,000-7,200, whereas Lynes says of kapitensis
“ nowhere appreciably off the general level— 3,000-5,000 feet.”

CISTICOLA BRACHYPTERA KATONAE. Mottled-back

Grass Warbler.

All through the moorland of the Chyulu range this species
was plentiful. Its altitudinal range was 4,000-7,200 feet, but it
was invariably associated with grass in proximity to trees; thus
we found it frequently in the smaller commencing forest patches,
largely composed of a few Erythrina surrounded by woody herbs
such as Leonotis, Vemonias and other composites; along the
forest edges and so on, but not in the entirely open grass lands.

The nesting season was about at an end, for no nest with
eggs were found, but two with week-old chicks; the bulk of the
young were either disassociated from their parents or still being
attended by them. Not infrequently one noted a party consist-
ing of parents and three young hunting about the herbage at
the base of an Erythrina clump; if disturbed they invariably flew
into the trees from which they protested loudly. I have never
found the species so plentiful in any part of its range.

It was noticeable that these birds were partial to one patch
of burnt-off bush along the forest edge; the herbs had begun to

shoot again and had reached a growth of perhaps eighteen inches.
Searching this new growth I found it to be heavily infested with
Aphids and a small spiral mollusc and to determine which the
birds were feeding on, two were shot. The stomachs contained
both Aphids and snails.

Taxonomic Note.

This series of 37 birds indicates that the dress is more or less
perennial, that is, there is no marked and strong difference
between the breeding and non-breeding plumage; but there is a
definite tone variation which is best expressed this way: that
the edging to the crown and mantle feathers is darker or
lighter but not in any way comparable to the change seen in the
Chyulu natalensis, for example.

When the Chyulu birds are laid out together with a series
from Nairobi area, Nakuru, Naivasha, to Fort Hall and Mt.
Kenya, it is at once noticeable that the Chyulu birds are darker,
less rufous tinged throughout the upper surface; in fact, in the
darker phase (12 skins) I cannot match them with any Kenya
highlands bird; on the other hand the lighter phase of the Chyulu
birds is very, though not entirely, comparable to the darkest
birds from up country. Lynes has noted “ a gradual diminution
of size and depth of colouration from west to east ” and at the
same time says : “ Birds in the Kenya highlands run quite notice-
ably larger, more deeply coloured and more boldly marked above
than those on the plateau eastward.” It is of interest to note,
therefore, that the Chyulu birds are even darker still.

The wing measurements of Chyulu birds are as follows:
Males, 50-54 mm.; females, 46-50 mm.

CISTICOLA ARIDULA TANGANYIKAE. Small Streaky

backed Grass Warbler.

Very few of this species were noted on the range. Actually,
I was surprised to find even a few, as the range taken as a whole
was unsuitable environment for these birds. They were
generally noted on the lower lava flows where the grass and
herbage was stunted. They were more often seen on the great
lava flow between the south end of the range and the southern
Chyulus.

General Remarks on Cisticola.

It was a surprise to me to find that there were no examples
of Cisticola , prinioides, galactotes, cheniana, or cinereola. The
forest edges with their luxuriant fringe of herbs at altitudes of
6-7,000 feet appeared eminently suitable for prinioides, whilst the
lower slopes at 4-5,500 seemed suitable to cheniana.

100

DICRURIDAE.

DICRURUS ADSIMILIS DIVARICATUS. Drongo Shrike.

These birds were only located in the low country at the foot
of the range, 4,000-5,000 feet; in this they were associated with
the Black Flycatcher already recorded, and the similarity is very
marked. They were particularly plentiful in the old abandoned
banana “ shambas.” On two occasions these birds were noted
to take Belenois severina (determined by dropped wings) as they
flew past the birds’ out-look post. They also captured small
Lycaenids and one Charaxes saturnus. A number of Fulgorids
disturbed in our attempt to capture them were snapped up by
Drongos. A small green-headed Lizard, plentiful amongst the
Fig trees was also taken from the tree trunks, the birds flying
straight to the tree and swerving swiftly just at the point of
contact; and, on most occasions, securing the prey. This is in
amusing contrast to an occasion on which I watched a Giant
Shrike ( Malaconotus ) making an unsuccessful attempt at flying
at a lizard who immediately slipped round the tree trunk; the
Shrike clambered (one could not call it anything else) round the
trunk; by that time the lizard had gone further up, then round.
A regular hide and seek followed, the lizard eventually disap-
peared into a hole in the rotten trunk and there remained. It
was really amusing to observe the Shrike looking this way and
that, and probably thinking “ Where the h has it got to?”

PRIONOPIDAE.

SIGMONUS RETZII GRAUCALINUS. Orange-billed

Helmet-Shrike.

Three adults and one sub-adult were taken out of a flock of
a dozen birds which appeared in the Erythrina trees on the
western slope of the range at Camp 2 and the lower lava flow
below Camp 3. It was apparently the same flock for when en-
countered on the eastern side at a later date, it was reduced by
the number previously shot. The variation in the call note of
these birds is remarkable, and when one starts calling, many
others join in, so that there is a confusion of notes. They are
extremely noisy. Their flight appears weak and rather flutter-
ing, interspersed with gliding, and is never long sustained. At
the moment of writing these notes, there is a large flock in the
Museum grounds. Friedmann, op. cit., states : “ It is a denizen
of dense forests . . . This is hardly correct: I have usually

noted them m fringing forest, savannah forest, in open acacia
park-country in Nairobi township very often, and the Chyulu
birds were “ taken in scattered Erythrina trees,” 4,000-5,000 feet.

101

It is common in the forests around Nairobi. It is one of these
curious gregarious species which, even during the nesting
season, hang together, and more than a pair will assist in feed-
ing the young at, and after they have left, the nest.

NILAUS MINOR MASSAICUS. Pale-flanked Brubru Shrike.

Absent from the higher zones of the range, this species
occurred on the lower zones amongst the Erythrina association.
An old nest of this species was located in an Erythrina tree; it
agreed entirely with a previous nest situated in an Acacia , found
last year, in May, on the Ngong Escarpment.

PRIONOPS POLIOCEPHALA. White-lined Helmet Shrike.

This species was taken on the lower zones of the range
during the three weeks May 21st to June 9th. It was not present
prior to the first date mentioned and no further examples were
noted in the central and southern lower portions of the range.

The birds collected were from two flocks, for my collectors
working on different sides of the range both reported the bird
on the same day. The series consists of four adults and two sub-
adults.

EUROCEPHALUS RUPPELLI RUPPELLI ^ DECKENI.

White-headed Shrike.
A few of this species were noted on the sparsely clad lower
slopes and the lava flows. They were very conspicuous as they
flew from tree to tree, the white head and upper tail-coverts
being noticeable features.

In the Chyulu hills, nesting was over by April, young birds
in barred plumage being well on the wing. In the Voi area I
obtained nestlings in January.

LANIIDAE.

LANIUS COLLARIS HUMERALIS. Long-tailed Pied Shrike.

This common species was met with throughout our safari
from Kibwezi to the hills; on the range itself, it was more plenti-
ful on the lower slopes and lava flows where scattered bush and
clumps of trees predominated. It was not actually taken in any
of the forests, though at 6,500 feet a pair frequented the forest
edge by our camp.

LANIUS CABANISI. Long-tailed Fiscal Shrike.

This is a bird of the bush and acacia country and naturally
would not be expected to range on to the higher altitudes ot the
Chyulu Hills. Thus of the five specimens taken, all were

102

TWENTY-EIGHTH ANNUAL REPORT, BOTANICAL REPORT
AND BALANCE SHEET FOR YEAR ENDING DEC. 31st, 1938.

The East Africa and Uganda Natural History Society was
founded in the year 1909; its objects were the study of Natural
Sciences within Eastern Africa, particularly Kenya and Uganda.

From a very unpretentious start, it has advanced, and
throughout nearly thirty years there has been no retrogression.
The year now under review is no exception; we are able to
report definite progress in many directions.

This Report marks a definite point in the history of the
Society, through whose efforts the country has acquired a local
Museum of no mean order, and of international importance.
From 1939, the Society will cease to administer the Museum;
this function will be taken over by a Board of Trustees,
appointed under the recently enacted “ Museums Ordinance.”

Public interest in the Society and its activities has been
more than maintained; the membership has slightly increased,
whilst appreciation of the Museum, as evidenced by the number
of visitors, is definitely gratifying.

Members who attended the last Annual General Meeting or
who have read the Report as published in the Journal, will
recollect that the Society agreed to maintain and develop the
Museum within the Memorial building to the late Sir Robert
Coryndon, on a definite basis during the year 1938. Further-
more, Government agreed to our proposal to appoint an Interim
Committee to investigate further the financial requirements of
the Museum, and to advise on matters connected with the pro-
posed legislation appropriate to museum development and
control. This Report has now been submitted to Government,
and the appointment of a public Board of Trustees is under
way.

Membership.

As already indicated, membership of the Society has been
maintained. The income from subscriptions was more than
budgeted for and can be considered fairly satisfactory; I use the
expression “ fairly satisfactory,” for I consider that with a little
more push from the Executive, the membership can be
materially augmented.

This is a matter for future reorganisation.

Publications: Lectures.

We regret to report the publication of only one Journal
during the year. Though small in bulk, it reflected energetic
work by certain members of the Society. The Publication
Committee has promised to make amends during 1939.

181

A talk on the recent Museums Expedition to the Chyulu
Hills was given in conjunction with the Special General Meeting
in December last. We would take this opportunity of thanking
Messrs. Melhuish and Beckley for the loan of projectors for use
at this meeting.

Expeditions.

As a result of the generous donation of £500 made by Mr.
W. D. Campbell, members of the Museum staff were able to put
in a three months’ safari to the Chyulu Hills where an ecological
survey of the range was carried out. The data and material
collected is referred to in the succeeding pages and will be
reported on in the Journal during 1939.

Study Collections.

Accessions to the study material during the year have been
far in excess of any recorded during recent years.

The Bird collection was greatly augmented by material
donated, by Mr. A. M. Champion; by valuable material from
the Baringo area by Dr. Maclnnes, by material presented by
Mr. Moreau, and by a very valuable collection from the Chyulu
Hills, taken by the Museum staff. This latter contains many
new races which have been and are being described in the pages
of the Journal and elsewhere.

The Entomological material has been augmented to a very
large degree, so much so that storage room is now totally
inadequate to house the collections. The principal donations
were from Mr. Jackson of Kitale; Mr. James Gastrell, Mbarara;
Mr. MacArthur, Mr. Gedye, Mr. Turner, Dr. Maclnnes, and
Messrs. G. and D. van Someren, whilst the Chyulu expedition
contributed several thousands of all groups of insects, including
many new to science. The special work on Fruit Flies has con-
tinued throughout the year and many new species will be
described in due course.

As hitherto, we have relied on, and are indebted to, Sir Guy
Marshall and members of the Imperial Institute of Entomology
for the determination of much of the general entomological
material, and Mr. Munro of Pretoria has dealt with the Trypetid
collections. Prof. Carpenter of Oxford, and Dr. Jordan of
Tring and members of the British Museum staff have deter-
mined special collections. To these gentlemen we tender our
thanks. Our thanks are due to Mr. Gedye for his services in
the Entomological room.

The Reptile and Amphibia study material was greatly
increased by activities of the Museum staff on the Chyulu Hills,
and many private individuals donated specimens.

182

The Geological collection has been only slightly augmented,
due largely to the fact that there is no specialist officer for this
division.

As a result of His Excellency the Governor’s request to
District Officers to collect Ethnological material, a considerable
augmentation has taken place in this division. Many of the
Native District Councils have taken an interest in the matter
and gifts in kind, and cash have been made.

It was not possible to stage any of the material donated, but
it is hoped to re-distribute the exhibits on the public galleries,
arranging the material by tribes, in the near future. There are
still many blanks and we hope that District Officers will continue
to assist in building up this section. We tender our thanks to
His Excellency and officers of the Administration who have
assisted us.

With the appointment of a Botanist to the staff, a fresh
impetus has been given to the Botanical section, both as regards
study and exhibited material. Mr. Bally was appointed to the
post early in 1938 and apart from the special Chyulu material,
has contributed a considerable quantity of material from nearby
areas. The systematic collections have been re-arranged and
augmented, and many coloured drawings of plants have been
added. In this last sphere of activity we have been materially
assisted by Mrs. Bally, whose work is greatly appreciated. A
detailed survey of the progress in the Botanical section is
appended in the Report by the Botanist. As a subsidiary
activity to the Herbarium, Mr. G. van Someren has undertaken
the propagation and cultivation of indigenous Orchids with a
view to close study of this difficult but interesting group.

The Mammal section has been added to (very considerably),
largely as the result of the expedition to the Chyulu Hills.

Library.

The co-operation with overseas Institutions mentioned in
last year’s Report continued, resulting in considerable augmenta-
tion of literature, thereby adding to the value of the Library.
Owing to lack of funds we were forced to continue with the
services of a part-time Librarian. The utility of the Library has
thus been curtailed, but the essential contact with institutions
has been maintained.

Reference Collections.

We have to report an increasing use of our systematic study
collections by members of Government Departments and visitors.
A very considerable amount of material has been sent in for
identification, more particularly in the Zoological and Botanical

183

sections, and a considerable amount of time of the staff is taken
up with this work. Material from the Ornithological collec-
tions has been forwarded to the British Museum for comparative
work and a reciprocal loan scheme has been inaugurated.

Museum Progress.

One additional habitat group was completed toward the
beginning of the year, and has proved a definite attraction.
Additions were made to all sections of the exhibited material,
including several coloured casts of reptiles and amphibia made
by Mr. Allen Turner during the Chyulu expedition.

Dr. and Mrs. Leakey staged a special archaeological exhibit
of the more important finds from the “ Hyrax Hill ” and Njoro
excavations. This exhibit is of particular interest and demon-
strates a culture which is now determined as pre-dynastic
Egyptian, indicating a probable trade intercourse with Kenya
at that period.

Visitors.

The interest taken by the public in the Museum is indicated
by the increase in number of visitors. A brief comparative
statement is as follows: 1935, 2,200; 1936, 3,906; 1937, 5,099;
1938, 7,000. An analysis of the 1938 figures shows that 3,674
visitors were children of school age; 2,520 adults paid the
ordinary entrance fee and 806 members and friends were
admitted free.

Distinguished visitors included Their Royal Highnesses the
Duke and Duchess of Gloucester and Lord and Lady Baden-
Powell. His Excellency the Governor visited the Museum on
several occasions.

Finance: General Progress.

The Financial Statement and Balance Sheet indicate a
conservative Budget estimate and a careful expenditure of the
funds made available. The principal sources of revenue, as
hitherto, were Government and the Nairobi Municipal Council.
We are appreciative of the fact that both bodies responded to
our representations regarding increased support, and we publicly
acknowledge our thanks.

The arrangement entered into between Government and
your Executive, that the Society should carry on the organisa-
tion of the Museum during 1938 on a minimum contribution of
£1,700 from sources other than the Society’s activities, has been
fulfilled on our side, and the deficit in revenue has been balanced
by curtailment of certain anticipated expenditure, and a con-
tribution from Society revenue. As announced at our last

184

annual meeting, His Excellency appointed a representative
Interim Committee to further investigate the re-organisation of
the Museum, to advise on adequate legislation, and explore
possible sources of revenue. This Committee, on which the
Society was represented, reported to Government last October.
The Report was approved by His Excellency in Council, and the
Museums Trustees Bill was presented to and passed Legislative
Council in November. The financial side was submitted to
Standing Finance Committee early in 1939, and I am authorised
to state that the additional funds required have been sanctioned.
The Society has agreed to manage the Museum for the month of
January, 1939, to allow of the appointment of the Board of
Trustees under the Museums Ordinance. It is hoped that this
Trust Board will be established and will assume control of the
Museum during February.

The cessation of Museum activities will necessitate a re-
organisation of the Society’s Constitution, and to this end, your
Executive has drawn up a revised constitution which will be
submitted for approval.

In concluding the Report, we wish to thank His Excellency
for his continued support and personal interest; to record our
appreciation of the help, both financial and practical, which
members of the Society have given; and to acknowledge our
indebtedness to those members who have rendered honorary
service throughout the year.

V. G. L. VAN SOMEREN,

Hon. Secretary.

185

REPORT OF THE BOTANICAL SECTION, 1938.

After a three years’ vacancy the Society decided to appoint
me as Botanist for 1938 as a temporary arrangement.

During the previous three years a number of collections had
been received; they were mostly duplicates from the Forestry
Department, but among them were other valuable collections,
such as a large collection of Uganda grasses, named duplicates
of the Agricultural Department, Uganda, a collection by the late
Mr. D. B. Burtt from the Virunga volcanoes, a collection by the
late Dr. W. Geilinger from Ruwenzori, a collection by Mrs.
Douglas Leakey from various localities in Kenya Colony, and
others.

The bulk of the accumulated material was dealt with during
the first 3J months of the year. Unfortunately a great number
of specimens were found to have deteriorated through lack of
attention.

Thus, 30% of Mr. Burtt’s Virunga collections, and all of the
material collected by Dr. Geilinger had to be discarded.

From April 17th to July 3rd, 1938, the Museum arranged an
expedition to the Chyulu Hills. This expedition — which had
been made possible by a generous private donation — was con-
ceived by Dr. van Someren and carried out on the lines of team
work, in a way that plant, bird, and insect life were studied
simultaneously with geological and topographical study. Dr.
van Someren, zoologist (assisted by trained native assistants), Mr.
Allan Turner as general field assistant, and myself as Botanist,
were the three permanent members, while a short visit by Mr.
A. M. Champion and Dr. Hitchens supplied some of the essential
topographical and geological information relative to the northern
section of the range, the remainder being carried out by the
staff.

The botanical work was carried out by myself and by my
personal boy Teofilo, but the collection of plants was added to
appreciably by Dr. van Someren, who contributed mainly Ferns
and Orchids. Live specimens of most of these were collected
and are now in cultivation at Dr. van Someren’s plot in Ngong.

A total of 1,265 specimens was collected on the Chyulu
safari, and in spite of the very wet weather during the first
month, 100% of the material was saved, owing to a drying stove,
especially constructed for the trip.

Plant succession studies were made in several parts of the
range, also a transect two miles long through the large forest
which covers the southern end of the Chyulus. The results of
these studies will be published in the Society’s Journal at a later
date, after receipt of identifications from Kew.

186

From May 1st to the end of the safari I had a meteorological
station installed, to which an evaporimeter was added at the
end of the month, in view of the unusual dew conditions which
prevailed on the top of the range. The data collected will
appear as an appendix to the Botanical report.

During the last two months Mrs. Bally joined the Expedi-
tion and she materially assisted the botanical work by painting
wild flowers for the Museum collection; her paintings were on
view at the General Meeting on December 16th on the occasion
of Dr. van Someren’s talk on the Chyulu Expedition.

After our return from the Chyulu Expedition, 300 specimens
of Kikuyu plants had to be named urgently in connection with
Dr. L. B. S. Leakey’s book on the Kikuyu tribe. Thereafter the
naming and despatching of the Chyulu material occupied me for
the best part of the following three months.

Apart from the Chyulu material, 580 specimens collected
during the year by myself and by various other people were
named and duplicates sent to Kew.

During the year a total of 1,800 specimens were mounted
and incorporated in the Herbarium.

In the Botanical room of the Museum a special exhibit of
drawings of Succulents was on view for several months, which
was followed by exhibits of paintings of East African Orchids
and of Thunbergia by Mrs. Bally.

The total of coloured drawings made during the year was
127, mostly by Mrs. Bally, and a number of them have been
selected for illustrating the new edition of “ Gardening in East
Africa.”

Systematic Work.

A survey of succulent Euphorbieae is being prepared in
collaboration with Prof. Dr. E. Werdermann of the Botanical
Museum, Berlin-Dahlem . So far, 45 species from East Africa

have been compiled, the material consisting of dried and spirit
specimens, 144 photographs, and 19 coloured drawings.

Many of the described species are being grown in a succu-
lent garden which was started during the year on the Museum
grounds.

The survey will eventually form part of a comprehensive
monograph on the world’s succulent Euphorbieae by Mr. Alain
White and Prof. Boyd L. Sloane, Summerville, South Carolina,

U.S.A.

Medicinal Plants.

A number of native medicinal plants, especially such with
specific action on the heart and on the circulatory system, were

187

sent to various institutions and firms during the year. One of
these plants, containing a toxic principle allied to Strophantine,
is now passing through a series of clinical tests, which have so
far proved satisfactory.

In the course of the year, determinations of plants were

given to: —

The Veterinary Department.

The Agricultural Department.

The Forestry Department.

The Game Department (Fish Warden).

The Scott Laboratories.

The Agricultural Officer, Moshi (Tanganyika Territory).
The Kaptagat School, Eldoret.
and to various private people.

PETER R. O. BALLY.

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189

We have compared the above Balance Sheet with the Books and Papers of the Society, and certify same to
be in accordance therewith.

Nairobi, For Gill & Johnson,

31st January, 1939. L. GILBERT.

1938. Shs. Cts. 1938. Shs. Cts.

Dec. 31. To Fixtures for Habitat Group ... 394 18 Jan. 1. By Balance brought forward ... 602 07

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192

collected on a lava flow on the western side of the range where
scattered Acacias and species of Celastracea and Erythrina were
the only trees.

MALACONOTUS POLIOCEPHALUS APPROXIMANS.

Giant Yellow-breasted Shrike.
This Giant Shrike vas quite numerous in the small valley
or donga patches of forest, and in the lesser true forest, and in
the Erythrina associations. Its clear note was often heard at the
lower elevations. It was not observed above 6,000 feet; at this
level only once, the majority were between 4,000-4,500 feet.
Several of the stomachs dissected contained lizards, grasshoppers,
Fulgorids, and other Hemiptera.

Taxonomic Note.

MALACONOTUS POLIOCEPHALUS and allied races.

In attempting to fix the racial form of the Giant Shrike of
the Chyulu Range, I have once again gone into the question of
the type locality of the race described by Cabanis, in Von der
Decken’s “ Reisen in Ost Afrika, 1869 (a copy of which is before
me). In this work it is given as Dalaoni River (not Dalaon, as
quoted by Sclater and Friedmann). I cannot find the exact place
in any map I have consulted.

It has been suggested to me by Moreau (in lit.) that this
place probably “ refers to Daluni, a camping place at the extreme
north end of the Usambara (east) on the caravan route to Kilima-
njaro, along the north side of the block.” If this is accepted as
correct, it clarifies the position. For in this region we find the
race maintaining a distinct type of plumage, whereas, at the
southern end and on the western side we find transitional
examples toward hypoyrrhus or blanchoti, whichever name is
acceptable for the southern race (Austin Roberts uses the
former). The Chyulu birds may be placed as the race approxi-
mans, Cab. Friedmann states (Bull. 153 U.S. Nat. Mus., p. 308)
that the race which extends to Kikuyu (Nairobi, Kiambu) is
approximans. My material from these localities are not of this
race, but similar to Morogoro birds which are hypopyrrhus.

With additional material, I am able to suggest that the south-
eastern race passes north through Tanganyika Territory and
enters the southern Masai country reaching Ngong, Nairobi,
Kiambu, and Kikuyu.

The coastal race approximans extends from the coastal belt
north to Ukamba, and toward Mt. Kenya, and up to the east of
Kilimanjaro passing eastward to Lamu and Southern Somaliland.

103

The wing measurements of the series representing this distribu-
tion are as follows:

Coast: Vanga-Mombasa-Lamu, 105-112 mm.; Vanga-Taveta-
Chyulu, 105-117 mm.; Tana-Kitui-Meru, 105-16 mm.;
Juba River, 108-116 mm. (mostly 113 mm.).

Friedmann, op. cit., gives 95-112 for this race, but many are
over his maximum. According to this author, the Marsabit birds
should be the race schoanus, with wings of 117-122, but his
smallest bird is 110 (Ndoto); thus there is a discrepancy in this
and his minimum. My Marsabit material measure 110-120; they
may be placed as schoanus. Turkana-Turkwell birds run larger,
118-122 mm., and are in many cases the intergrades between
schoanus to the north-east and catharoxanthus of the Nile Valley
and Uganda. I was unable to distinguish these from the type
and series of interpositus, Hartert, with which I compared them
at Tring in 1922. This name appears to apply to intergrades
between poliocephalus and hypophyrrus ?

It is unfortunate that Friedmann should not have brought
his notes and comments, in his valuable work, up to date, when
making reference to publications of other authors. This is
markedly the case when he refers to Chlorophoneus nigrifrons
and abbotti groups, and in others, as has been pointed out by
Moreau, Ibis, 1938, pp. 593-597.

TSCHAGRA SENEGAL A ARMEN A. Black-crowned Red-

winged Bush Shrike.

The Greater Red-winged Bush Shrike was plentiful in suit-
able localities along the range. It was not found in the forest
and wherever noted was limited to the lesser clumps of bushes
and Erythrina associations, in the more open small starting
forests. The altitude range was thus 4,000-5,500 feet. Favourite
localities were the small craters or “blow-holes” which were over-
grown with Euphorbia and bush with stunted and small trees of
Catha edulis . One very often found them in the grass lands
away from bush, usually along some buffalo path; they were
here because along these trails were numbers of beetles and other
insects making use of the paths for easy travel; again along these
paths various animals dropped their dung, serval cats for
instance, and as one knows, these droppings soon attract various
Scarabeids, and these are relished by the Shrikes.

Taxonomic Note.

I do not wish to enter into a discussion of the validity of the
various races I admit to the Kenya-Uganda list, but would draw

104

attention to Friedmann’s suggestion that the East African birds
hitherto accepted as armenus, type locality Taveta, are identical
with South African birds, named by me confusus. It is true that
Oberholser linked the Taveta bird with those of South Africa
and proposed a name which included both, but the type cited is
a Taveta bird, and he appears to have had only one S.A. speci-
men, P.U.S. Mus., Vol. 130, p. 810.

To test the statement that South African birds are not dis-
tinct from Kenya specimens, I have had the loan of 41 specimens
of T. senegala from the Transvaal Museum, through the kind-
ness of Dr. Austin Roberts. In all, I have before me 132 birds.
Whilst it is true that individual Kenya birds can be matched
with S.A. material and vice versa, in the series it is noticeable
that the southern birds are darker, more generally suffused with
grey on the underside than are the Kenya specimens. Further-
more, omitting the accepted coastal race orientalis, type locality
Mombasa, we find on measuring the wing and tail lengths that
the southern birds run larger. Thirty-six birds give the follow-
ing: Wings, 86-92 mm.; tails, 103-112 mm. in the following ratios:
Wings, 3 of 86, 4 of 87, 2 of 88, 13 of 89, 12 of 90, 3 of 91, 2 of 92;
tails: 1 of 103, 8 of 104, 5 of 105, 18 of 106, 4 of 108, 2 of 110, 1 of
112.

Twenty-four Kenya highland birds measured as follows:
Wings, 80-89 mm.; tails, 90-100 mm. in the following ratio: 1 of
80, 1 of 81, 1 of 82, 2 of 83, 1 of 84, 3 of 85, 6 of 86, 3 of 88, 1 of 89;
tails: 1 of 90, 1 of 91, 2 of 92, 2 of 93, 5 of 95, 3 of 96, 2 of 97,
1 of 98, 2 of 99, 1 of 100.

Apart from general colour differences as noted, we have the
additional support of size. Although the type of armena is one
of the intermediates toward the coastal race orientalis I support
the use of this name for the Kenya highland race.

I have now to refer to the remarks on this species in Jack-
son’s Birds of Uganda (Sclater, 1938), for they are an extreme
view, viz., that only one race is recognisable from Senegal across
Africa, excepting N.E. and south to the Cape. So far as the
southern birds are concerned, I would refer readers to the fore-
going table and remarks. To test out the statement that only
one race is recognisable in Eastern Africa, I have again laid out
my very large series of nearly 200 skins. There is not the
slightest doubt that all along the coastal belt from Lumbo, P.E.A.,
to the Juba River the birds are very white below, and the inland
birds are darker and greyer. The coastal birds are certainly
divisible into three races; South Somaliland and Jubaland
catholeuca , Neum., meeting with orientalis, Cab., in the Lamu
area, this race extending southward to beyond Dar es Salaam;
along the coast of P.E.A. the race mozambica, van Som. occurs.

105

I therefore see no reason to depart from my previously published
opinion.

TSCHAGRA AUSTRALIS. Subsp. Chyulu Lesser Red-

winged Bush Shrike.

The Lesser Red-winged bush Shrike was plentiful toward
the northern portion of the range along the forest margins. It
was very retiring in habits, keeping to the thick tangle of bush
and creepers which surrounded most of the forest patches.

Taxonomic Note.

I have compared these Chyulu birds with a long series from
the coastal strip, paratypes of my race littoralis, and find them,
to differ in the following respects : Mantle generally darker, red-
brown; crown also darker; but the underside very strikingly
white on the throat, mid breast and abdomen contrasting with
the flanks which are ochreous-grey with a wash of olive.

The race littoralis is described as a smaller, much paler race
compared to the inland minor and emini; the Chyulu bird is
darker above and whiter below.

DRYOSCOPUS CUBLA. Puff-backed Shrike.

This species was exceedingly plentiful in all parts of the
range and was found throughout the forests, even to the depths
of the Great Chyulu Forest. Friedmann writes (Bull. 153, U.S.
Nat. Mus.) that the birds live in open woods and not in dense
forest. This is not strictly correct; it occurs in both, in Kenya.
It was noted in the canopy and mid-zones of the forest, and was
often seen associated with other species as part of a “ bird party ”
in an organised “ drive ” through the tree tops. Chyulu birds
had finished breeding on April 24th.

Taxonomic Note.

I have dealt at length with the variation in this species as
it occurs throughout Kenya (Nov. Zool ., 1938) indicating that
along the coast the race hamatus tends to become smaller. I
gave comparative figures of the material then available show-
ing males to have wings of 78-89 mm. Friedmann refers to this
paper in another connection but does not give these figures, but
others, based on lesser material in 1922. Since 1932 additional
material has come to hand and corroborates my previously ex-
pressed views: Mara River-Sotik-Mau birds run up to 89 mm.
(six examples) and now further material from the coast gives
males not exceeding 83, most below 80. Of the Chyulu birCs
(adults) 16 males run from 79-82, eleven are 80 mm.; only three
are above the 80 mark.

106

It would be interesting to know more of the topotypical
Umyamwesi bird, for this locality is after all a long way from
the Kenya Highlands. Such topotypical material would have to
be examined in long series before one could state definitely that
the coast birds were consistently smaller.

LANIARIUS FERRUGINEUS CHYULU. Subsp. Nov.

Chyulu Pied Shrike.

On the Chyulu Range, wherever there was thick cover in
the form of dense marginal forest growth, or in spots in the
forest where lianas had massed the vegetation together into an
almost impenetrable growth, this Pied Shrike was sure to be
found.

If not seen at once, its loud call, often a duet between the
two birds, was heard on every side. Quite often as one was
searching the mass of lianas at the top of some tree in the hope
of obtaining a glimpse of a Bar-throated Warbler, one would see
a movement; one shot at the spot, and in a moment down would
come one of these birds; its presence hitherto undetected, for they
are not always noisy. I have watched a pair working about on
the top of a creeper-clad tree for moments on end without a
sound.

Usually, however, if the birds have been disturbed, they will
scold and from excitement commence calling as soon as they
have gone into cover. This bird is equally at home in all strata
of the forest, even on the ground, for when they are working
thick tangled marginal growth they frequently come to ground,
but I have not observed them doing any actual searching on the
ground for any length of time. The usual note heard is a loud
far-reaching “ pi-you-hoo ” not actually three distinct notes, but
three run together so as to give a cadence and intonation as
described. Sometimes the note is a quavering “ p-o-o-o-o.”
Examination of stomach contents showed these birds to take a
variety of insects, spiders, young mice, and land mollusca, of
quite fair size but always broken up.

The Uganda and Kenya highland race have been seen by
me to take eggs and young birds of other species, but the Chyulu
bird was not detected in the robbery: the nesting season was
over by April.

Apart from actually taking mice from nests, as I have wit-
nessed, I caught a pair of these Shrikes in the act of destroying
a small mouse which had been caught in a trap set for it in a
tree. Although the Chyulu bird was extremely retiring, that is,
it kept to the thick portions of vegetation, I not infrequently saw
them at the forest margin taking grasshoppers. They would
work along the vegetation until a grasshopper was seen; a bird

107

flew out, seized the insect and retired immediately. All young
seen were strong on the wing and no nestlings were noted.

Taxonomic Note.

For purposes of comparing the Chyulu birds I have set out
all available material of this species throughout its range in
Kenya, some 180, not including birds from Chyulu. I have con-
sidered this material in the light of the remarks on the group,
by Friedmann, Bull. 153, U.S. Nat. Mus., and the arrangement
given by Sclater in his “ Systema.”

Omitting Uganda material, which is accepted as L. f. major ,
characterised by having the middle upper wing coverts, the
inner greater coverts and inner secondaries with white, we find
that birds from Elgon, Maraquet, Cherangani, Kaimosi, Mau to
Sotik and Rongai, Nakuru to Naivasha are of this type, with in
the last named two localities intergrades towards ambiguus.
Two Aberdare birds show the same extensive white areas and
cannot be distinguished from major.

According to Friedmann these Aberdare birds should be
aethiopicus. The wing measurement of the above-recorded birds
are as follows: Males, 99-102 mm. (Naivasha-Nakuru), 100-105 in
birds from Mau; Kericho, Sotik, 103-107 mm.; Elgon-Kaimosi,
98-100 mm.

Examining the Nairobi-Kyambu material, we find evidence
of the influence of major. Three birds are indistinguishable from
that race in respect of the amount of white on the wing; one has
less white on the coverts, but still retains it on the inner second-
aries; seven birds are similar to ambiguus of Kilimanjaro. Males
96-99 mm., females 90-96.

Marsabit birds. — Nine specimens from this locality give the
following measurements: Males, 96-99 mm.; females, 90-96 mm.
They are aethiopicus. Friedmann suggests that the Meru
(Kenya) birds are major , but as these have the white limited to
the middle wing-coverts they cannot be major. Actually, they
are intergrades between aethiopicus and ambiguus. Topotypical
ambiguus in my collection have wing lengths of 99 in males and
93 in females; but Friedmann gives 85-96 for this race. Birds
from Lumbo measure 88-96 mm., but Friedmann gives 90 mm.

The only other described race within Kenya is sublacteus,
which is a coastal form, with no white on the wing. This race
extends inland through Tsavo and Teita to the base of Kilima-
njaro.

Having defined the races as above, we find that the only race
comparable to the Chyulu birds is ambiguus.

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Description: Like ambiguus in that the white of the wing
is limited to the middle coverts, they differ in having the whole
of the upper side decidedly green-black, not blue-black; the
throat is pure white and contrasts strongly with the very rich
pink-buff of the breast and sides, more so than in any East
African race. In size they agree with ambiguus . Type: male,
Chyulu Range, 18/6/38, alt. range 5,000-7,200 feet in forest.
Coryndon Museum Expedition, 1938. Twenty-two specimens
were collected. Limited range, the Chyulu Hills.

LANIARIUS FUNEBRIS DEGERER < ROTHSCHILD!

Sooty Bush Shrike.

Though very numerous in the lower plains round the moun-
tains very few of these birds appeared to ascend to higher than
5,200 feet. Three adults and two immature in different dress
were obtained. The young were still with their respective
parents.

They have a very loud piercing staccato call which they
utter when at all excited, a variation of four notes, first one, then
followed by three in rapid succession. On the range they only
occurred in the bush and Erythrina associations, or in the old
cultivations at the foot of the hills.

TELOPHORUS QUADRICOLOR NIGRICAUDA.

Crimson-throated Green Shrike.

Two specimens of this very decorative bird were obtained
at the 4,000 foot level; it cannot, however, be called an inhabitant
of the range proper but rather of the adjoining plains.

CHLOROPHONEUS SULFUREOPECTUS SUAHELICUS.

Orange-breasted Scrub Shrike.

Here again we have a bird of the plains, i.e. the lowland bush
and savannah forests extending partly up' the range. A few were
obtained in the Erythrina- bush-association of the lower lava
flows, up to 4,500 feet.

PARIDAE.

PARUS ALBIVENTRIS £ CURTUS. Chyulu White-

bellied Tit.

The White-bellied Tit occurred in the lower Erythrina scrub
zones and only reached an altitude of 5,000 feet. A pair used to
go to roost every evening in the broken end of a branch of
Cussonia just near Camp 1. There was always a lot of chatter
before they finally settled down. They were noted to seek for

109

food almost entirely amongst the lichen-clad branches of the
before-mentioned trees and were seldom seen at the forest edge.
On occasions one saw them forcing open the pods of the
Erythrina, and on investigation I found the seeds to be badly
infested with larvae of a beetle; doubtless the birds were after
these.

Taxonomic Note.

I have designated these birds as intermediates between the
smaller coastal race and that of the highlands. I find on measur-
ing up the wing length of the Chyulu birds that they do approach
the smaller race, since that form was based on size alone, in
that they vary from 76-83 mm., only one bird out of six reaching
83; the others are 76-78 mm. females, 79-80 mm. males. It is
unfortunate that the type of curtus was from Taveta for the
actual coast bird are the smallest members of the race.

PARISOMA BOHMI. Black-collared Tit-Warbler.

These little Tit- Warblers were quite plentiful on the lower
zones amongst the Acacia-Erythrina trees and scattered bush of
the lower lava flows. As this type of country was rather inter-
mittent, being broken up by intruding lava cones and craters,
it was difficult to ascertain its relative abundance at any one
level. In its behaviour it is somewhat tit-like yet at the same
time one is inclined to associate it more with the Warblers. I
have not noted this bird to creep and twist about the branches
as do the Tits, nor have I seen them cling to a trunk to pick at
a hole in the bark. Their general field characters associate them
with the Warblers rather than with the Flycatchers as tentatively
arranged in the “ Systema.”

I would draw attention to the fact that the two Chyulu
specimens differ from a series of 12 from the Samburu-Simba
bush country (along the railway) by being markedly clearer grey
above. The specimens were taken in the Erythrina association
at 5,000 feet.

ORIOLIDAE.

ORIOLUS MONACHA KIKUYUENSIS ^ REICHENOWI.

Chyulu Black-headed Oriole.

The Black-headed Oriole was surprisingly restricted in its
distribution along the Chyulu Range, for we only met with it at
the north and central portions and it was not even heard in the
Great Chyulu Forest. Even where it did occur, it was not as a
forest bird, but was always located in the more scanty forest
patches . . . commencing forest . . . and among the Erythrina -

110

Cussonia associations, as well as the stands of Catha edulis grow-
ing near the now deserted banana “ shambas ” along the lower
zones and at 4,000 to 5,000 feet.

There was nothing distinctive in the behaviour of the birds
which had not already been noted.

The systematic position of these birds is interesting, for they
constitute part of the aggregate of intermediates between the
large highland race kikuyuensis and the small coastal-Jubaland
birds, reichenowi. In type of plumage they are less washed with
yellow on the mantle, more greenish, than the majority of coastal
birds, nor do they exactly resemble the highland form. In size
of wing they are intermediate between the two : 122-134 mm.

ORIOLUS AURATUS NOTATUS, Peters. Southern Golden

Oriole.

Two birds were noted and one obtained at Camp 2, 5,200 feet.
The specimen is a sub-adult male and shows the replacement of
the striped breast feathering for the uniform yellow of the fully-
fledged adult. They were noted in “ commencing forest.”

CORVIDAE.

CORVUS ALBICOLLIS. White-neck Raven.

At different portions of the range one could count on seeing
a pair of these wily birds; at each of our standing camps a pair
was noted as frequenting particular patches of forest as roosting
places. Each had its dead tree standing out from the rest of the
forest growth. During the day time, the birds used these vantage
points to scour the surrounding country for possible food. They
became aware almost at once when any dead animal was being
gutted or skinned. One could hear their raucous call from a far
distance as a pair, flying over different parts of the hill sides,
called to each other. One old nest was located in a cliff face
where the lava had faulted and slipped down some fifty or more
feet. Though largely carrion feeders, they will also take beetles
and the larger Grasshoppers and locusts. A pair at Camp 1 were
the means of recovering a wounded Guineafowl which had got
away the previous evening just at dusk. It became too dark to
search for the bird the evening it was shot and search was made
early next morning in the direction it had gone off. The Ravens
had already spotted the bird and were chivvying it in the long
grass, swooping down and striking with their powerful bills and
causing feathers to fly. The bird was rescued and put out of its
misery, while the Ravens kept their distance, well out of gun
shot. They allow one to approach comparatively near if one is
unarmed, but if a gun is carried they know what is a safe distance.

Ill

Like others of the Crow family, these birds will search over
ground which has been recently burnt, in the hope of finding
some half-scorched rodent, frog, or lizard.

STURNIDAE. Pholia.

PHOLIA FEMORAL1S, Richmond. Buff-bellied Purple

Starling.

On two occasions this small starling was noted in large flocks
100 strong within the Great Chyulu Forest but it did not seem to
occur at the northern end of the range. This may be accounted
for to a large extent by the fact that the particular species of tree
on the fruits of which these birds were feeding was not found at
that end. The fruits are those of Cornus volkensii and the trees,
at the time of our visit were heavily laden. In the narrative
introductory 10 the systematic records, I have mentioned the fact
that this tree grew in abundance on the high ridge of Chyulu at
7,200 feet in the form of a natural avenue on either side of the
ridge, and it was here on the two occasions I visited the peak that
femoralis was abundant. On the first occasion my attention was
drawn to the birds by their continuous whistling notes, many
birds taking part in the chorus. The call of six notes was, three
in ascending scale then down the same three to one below the
first. After listening to the birds and watching their behaviour
for about half an hour I shot a pair, whereupon the whole flock
swept out of the trees and away to the south end of the great
forest. We waited for an hour for their return but they did not
put in an appearance. On the second occasion the birds were
in the same trees, but an unfortunate premature shot by one of
my native boys drove the flock off before any more specimens
could be obtained. I was particularly anxious to obtain further
material, for the species has only once been previously recorded
from within the Kenya boundaries, at Kikuyu Escarpment in
1903 by the late W. Doherty, though the bird is plentiful on
Kilimanjaro. It is of interest to note that the particular species
of tree on which the birds were feeding is recorded from the
Kikuyu Escarpment and eastern Aberdares, and is associated
with the damp rain forests at high elevations (according to
Battiscombe, 8,000-9,000 feet). The bird occurs on Kilimanjaro
from 6,000-10,000 feet; on Chyulu, at 7,200 feet. Like many of
these Starling, femoralis is wasteful in method of feeding; just
as many berries are dropped as are eaten. Not all the birds
noted on the first occasion were feeding, many were sitting in
the sun-lit branches preening themselves, or whistling lustily.
A point of interest is that this species is said to replace P. sharpii
of Elgon and the Mau and Aberdares, on Kilimanjaro (Moreau,

112

P.Z.S., Jan., 1936), but we record sharpii from the Chyulu. It
is quite possible that the species will eventually be found on
Kilimanjaro. One must keep in mind that these birds are great
local migrants, moving for purposes of food.

We were anxious to secure further material of femoralis and
carefully examined all trees where starlings were feeding and
more than once we were mistaken in naked-eye identification
of birds which, on the tree tops, looked like it. The most con-
fusing was B. 1. kilemense which has a general scheme of black
with white belly as in the starling, and quite a few were shot
in error. With glasses it was of course possible to note the white
head streak and the thick bill of the Barbet.

PHOLIA SHARPII, Jackson. Buff-bellied Blue Starling.

On the southern end of the Chyulu range, we noted one
large flock of these birds which came to feed on certain trees then
heavy in fruit, and from it we obtained a small series. They are
indistinguishable from Elgon-Mau birds, except in point of size :
95-100 mm. as against 100-106 mm.; shorter tails which are less
forked. The Chyulu material is insufficient to say more.

The occurrence of this bird along with femoralis is of parti-
cular interest. The tree on which they always fed, usually
toward the late afternoon, was a species of Sapium. It was also
frequented by Barbets, Bulbuls, and Thrushes.

The fruits were for the most part toward the ends of the
pendent branches and these starlings were adepts at sidling down
a twig to the tip and stripping the fruits off; their skill was in
strong contrast to the heavy and clumsy antics of the Pied
Barbets, B. 1. kilimense.

These birds were less vociferous than either femoralis or C.
leucogaster, which latter was also seen feeding on Sapium.

CINNYRICINCLUS LEUCOGASTER. White-breasted

Violet Starling.

Pairs and small flocks of these birds were noted throughout
the range from 4,000 to 6,500 feet. With the exception of the
flock which fed on Sapium berries, most of the birds were noted
to feed on species of Ficus. They are very noisy, not so much
that the call is loud, for it is not, but incessant. On some of
the wide-spreading figs the whole canopy would be a moving
mass of these birds, most of them either busy feeding or whistling
in a most jumbled manner; a clap of the hands, not sufficient to
drive them away would bring the singing to a sudden stop, to be
renewed in a few moments.

The only specimens obtained are immature or female and I
have therefore not treated them racially, I have commented on

113

the value of Bowens’ lauragrayae in Nov. Zool., XXXVII, 1932,
and cannot support it; additional material endorses this view. It is
of interest to note that in 1936 Loveridge and Peters definitely sink
this race, yet in 1937, Loveridge in conjunction with Friedmann,
Bull. Mus. Comp. ZooL, admits it. In 1933, Bangs and Loveridge
in the same Journal, admit it. Friedmann in Bull. 153 U.S. Nat.
Mus., p. 331, admits it but refers to my measurements of an ex-
ceedingly long series but does not seek to interpret them as
indicating instability of the supposed characters on which the
race is founded. Why? Sclater and Moreau doubt its validity,,
and I have no hesitation in making it a synonym.

ZOSTEROPIDAE.

ZOSTEROPS CHYULUENSIS. Sp. Nov. Chyulu White-eye.

A very long series of these birds was taken in order to ascer-
tain the stability of characters which appeared to indicate these
birds as a hitherto unknown race or even species. Seventy
specimens Were obtained. Taxonomic notes will be appended.

This species of Zoster ops frequented the forests at altitudes
varying from 7,000 to 4,500; below this there occurred the smaller
Z osterops senegalensis flavilateralis, Reichw., which is an inhabi-
tant of the thorn bush and savanna forests. The two thus have
entirely different ecological habitats.

The Chyulu Zosterops is a bird of the forest canopy for the
most part, more particularly in the larger forests where there
were no more or less open glades or clearings. This was particu-
larly noticeable in the mornings up to the early afternoon; after
this hour, as the sun was at a slant, one noted the birds among
the trees along the forest edge, more particularly those which
were heavy with beard lichen and with the evening sun directed
on to them. Another favourite feeding resort was among the
giant Lobelias which grew at the forest edge just within the
border of bush which was composed largely of Vernonia, Leonotis
and Pentas. A pair of birds would work systematically from
the bottom to the top of a flower spike (many of them 10 feet and
more long) ascending the stem in spiral fashion. I was particu-
larly interested in the probable food obtained from these flowers
and ascertained that both nectar and insects were taken. At the
same time, stomach examination showed that the birds fed also
on small berries as well as larvae of various sorts and spiders.

The diet is thus a mixed one. In captivity I have found that
Zosterops are partial to Aphids and scale insects and will readily
eat banana and other soft fruits. As with most of the species,
these birds are gregarious to a certain degree, and from my
observations it would appear that flocking does not occur through-

114

out the whole day. In one small forest patch one noted perhaps
two or three pairs hunting in couples but toward the late after-
noon these pairs would be joined by twenty or so additional birds
and all, in association with other species would hunt over a large
lichen and moss-covered tree just at the back of our camp; this
was particularly the case if there had been a shower of rain in
the morning or early afternoon. One nest of the species was
located in a small tree ( Catha edulis ) growing at the edge of a
forest patch. It was composed entirely of beard-moss lightly
woven and very flimsy and slung between a horizontal fork. A
broken egg shell, pale blue in colour, found not far from the nest
indicated that the nest had been robbed, probably by a rat or
Shrike. As there was only the one species of Zoster ops in the
hills, the nest could only belong to this bird. It was noted that
all the birds obtained during mid-April to mid-May were in
moult, on tail and primaries and about the head, less so on the
body. As young birds were on the wing I concluded that the
nesting season had ended in March. In contrast, all birds shot
toward the end of May and throughout June and July were in
beautiful fresh plumage. Only one male shot on 21st April had
slightly enlarged gonads.

Taxonomic Note.

The Chyulu Zosterops is very distinctive when compared
with its possible near allies. Geographically, it is nearest to
eurycricotus of Mt. Meru and Kilimanjaro, but it needs no com-
parison with this race which is very dull coloured. Usamharae
to the south is small and does not possess a large white eye-ring.
To the westward, however, in the Mbulu district of Tanganyika
Territory we find the recently described mbuluensis of Sclater
and Moreau. Through the kindness of Mr. Moreau, I am able to
compare the Chyulu birds with that race. In the comparative
notes on the races of Z. virens published by Sclater and Moreau
in B.B.O.C., Vol. Ivi., pp. 14-15, we are informed that the race
mbuluensis ranges east as far as the Pare range, S.S.E. of Kilima-
njaro, Moreau (in lit.) informs me that mbuluensis and eurycri-
cotus occur together in part of their distribution and are now
considered to belong to two distinct species.

This supports my view that there has been too much lump-
ing into one species, virens , as was done by Sclater in the
“ Systema,” and again in the B.B.O.C., Vol. Ivi, cited above.

Description: Nearest to the race mbuluensis, Sclater and
Moreau, the brightest male of which is about equal in colour to
the female of the Chyulu bird, on the underside; but the upper
side is not so washed with yellow, nor is the yellow so rich or

115

extensive. In mbuluensis the yellow of the forehead is restricted
to just at the base of the bill and a wash over the fore-part of
the crown; in chyuluensis the yellow is richer and extends to the
fore-part of the eye and is carried back as a supercilliary stripe
to almost the posterior side of the white eye-ring. The whole
upper side is more strongly washed with yellow, while the under-
side is a rich canary yellow, with a slight wash of green on the
sides of the breast and flanks. The very bright underside is a
characteristic feature, as well as the extension of the yellow
supercillium.

Sclater compares the Mbulu bird with kikuyuensis and so
far as this compares with the Chyulu bird, one need only remark
that the latter is far richer yellow on the underside and the
yellow of the fore part of the head is richer, but not so defined.
The Chyulu bird requires no comparison with jacksoni except to
indicate that jacksoni has only a narrow white eye-ring and is
a generally duller bird. The only point of slight similarity is
in the distribution of the yellow on the forehead, but the colour
is different.

Type: Male, Chyulu Range, Camp 3, 26/6/38, altitude 6,800
feet, Chyulu Great forest. Coryndon Museum Expedition, 1938.

Remarks : Forty-two males and 29 females were taken.
Wing measurements of this very large series are as follows:
Males average 64£ mm., variation 62-65 mm.; females average
61 mm., variation 58-63 mm. Seven males, 63 mm.; 10 males,
64 mm.

As I have dealt with the wing measurements of this bird in
some detail it is as well to refer to a remark by Sclater and
Moreau ( B.B.O.C. , lvi., p. 15) to the effect that jacksoni and
usambarae are small birds. This is true of the latter, but topo-
typical jacksoni give the following wing measurements: Males*
62-66 mm., as follows: 3 of 66, 2 of 65, 2 of 64, 3 of 63, 1 of 62 mm.
Females: 58-63.

They are thus just as large as chyuluensis or mbuluensis.

In passing I should like to place on record that a specimen
of Zosterops from “ Merikitabu ” — Pargitabak, Southern Masai
area, N.W. of the Nguruman range, is identical in colour with
usambarae but has wings of 59 mm. It also bears a resemblance
to garguensis, Mearns, but is readily distinguishable from it.

116

The general grouping of East African Zosterops which I
adopt in my systematic series is as follows :

Group 1. — Characterised by their general large size, large white
eye-ring. Entirely forest birds.

Kikuyuensis. — Distribution, Mt. Kenya, Aberdares, Kikuyu
and Ngong forests.

Chyuluensis. — Distribution, Chyulu Mountains.

Mbuluensis.— Distribution, Mbulu district (highlands of the
Great Craters), Kitumbeni, and Longido, and probably
Pare (these seem very close).

Eurycricotus. — Distribution, Mts. Meru and Kilimanjaro.

Group 2. — Characterised by a small eye-ring, variation in size
from the smaller savannah races to the alpine forms.

Jacksoni. — Distribution, Mau to the Cherangani range.

Elgonensis. — Distribution, Mt. Elgon.

Yalensis. — Distribution, the open savannah and park country
of the Yala and Nzoia valley.

Stuhlmanni.— Distribution, the orchard forest and savannah
country and more open forests of Uganda to Mt. Moroto,
Turkana.

Garguensis. — Distribution, the scattered forests on the tops
of hills in the Northern Frontier, Uraguess and Marsabit.

? ? Distribution, open steppe forest of the southern Masai

Reserve. Parigitabak.

Usambarae. — Distribution, Usambara Range, and probably
further south (Moreau, in lit.).

Group 3. — Characterised by their general small size; hardly any
white ring round eye; bright yellow, though paler
underside.

Jubaensis. — Distribution, Juba River Valley.

Flavilateralis. — Distribution, the thorn-bush and steppe
forests through southern Ukambani to the plains coun-
try round Kilimanjaro.

Fricki. — Distribution, the park and acacia country of the
Kenya highlands, not in forest.

Super ciliosus. — Distribution, northern Uganda to Lake
Albert.

Group 4. — Characterised by grey undersides.

Winifredae , Sclater and Moreau. Distribution, South Pare,
bush; white eye-ring small; paler abdomen; frons and
throat yellow.

117

Silvanus, Peters and Loveridge. Distribution, Ml Mbololo.
More uniform grey underside; large white eye-ring;
yellowish-green throat. Forest.

I have purposely refrained from designating the above as races
of so many species, for I feel that we have even now insufficient
data on which to group them into species, with the exception
perhaps of those usually associated with senegalensis.

NECTARINIIDAE.

NECTARINIA FORMOSA AENEIGULARIS.

Long-tailed Emerald S unbird.

This species was very common throughout the whole of the
moorlands of the range. I refer to the moorland, as it was not
an inmate of the forest but of the forest edge and the scattered
bush among the grass lands. It was ever present, even when the
hills were covered in dense mist one could dimly see these birds
flitting from one clump of Gladiolus to another, or hear their
sharp piping call. Two species of plants were much sought after,
the beautiful orange and salmon Gladiolus so plentiful in the
grasslands or the soft leafed Leonotis which grew in abundance
along the forest edges and around the Erythrina clumps; they
definitely preferred the former. They were undoubtedly more
plentiful at the higher altitudes of 7,000-6,000 but one also found
them at 4,500 feet.

Quite a number of nests were found, usually low in a clump
of Leonotis, or amongst the leaves of the Chyulu Blue Lupin. A
considerable quantity of vegetable wool is used in the construc-
tion of the nest, both as a lining and in the body-work. The outer
frame was almost entirely grass and bark fibres. Most of the
“ wool ” was from Asclepiads, Marsdenia, and Clematis with a
mixture of composite heads. No eggs were found, but one nest
had a nestling.

NECTARINIA KILIMENSIS. Long-tailed green-bronze

Sunbird,

This species was found throughout the range and was every-
where plentiful along the edges of the forest and even more so
in the lesser forest clumps and the lower levels where bush and
Erythrina were plentiful. It kept at a lower level than most of
the Sunbirds, and roughly speaking its main strata appeared to
be 4,000-5,800 feet.

118

NECTARINIA (DREPANORHYNCHUS) REICHENOWI.

Golden Long-tailed Sunbird.

Another very common bird, but inclined to range rather
higher than kilimensis, thus it was plentiful at 6,000-7,000 feet.

I have already mentioned that the Emerald Sunbird was very
partial to Gladiolus , but this species was seldom noted at these
plants; it kept almost entirely to Leonotis and various Acan-
thaceae.

CHALCOMITRA SENEGALENSIS LAMPERTI.

Red-breasted Black Sunbird.

A bird of the open country for preference, where the Acacias
and Erythrina flowers give ample support. They feed largely on
insects and flower juices, from these trees, but one may often
observe them in the forests; thus they were noted to frequent the
large white flowers of Connophyringia.

CHALCOMITRA AMETHYSTINA KALCKREUTHI.

Violet-throated Black Sunbird.

Many were observed along the edge and in the more open
forests. It also occurred on the lower lava flows of 4,000 feet.

CINNYRIS MEDIO CRIS. Chyulu Olive-bellied Sunbird.

All along the edges of the forest and in the ravine forests
this species was plentiful and conspicuous; it occurred, however,
in the mid-forest also as members of the organised “drives”
which one so often noticed. This species had finished breeding
by April.

These birds do not exactly agree with Kilimanjaro speci-
mens, but I have insufficient material of mediocris (only four
males) from the mountain, and in cases where the differences in
the races can be best seen in series, the females are also of great
value, and they often exhibit better characters than the males.
Thus 12 females from the Chyulu hills cannot possibly be united
with 14 specimens from Kenya and the Aberdares; they are quite
distinct.

While on the subject of C. mediocris I should like to draw
attention to the races moreaui and loveridgei (as arranged by
Sclater, Ibis, 1933, p. 215). I have no moreaui and cannot com-
ment on this supposed link. I have, however, a cotype of
loveridgei and it would appear at first sight to be most closely
allied to if not definitely a race of C. regius, of which I have a
series, except that the bill in regius is very small; very large in
the latter, 14 mm. and 25 mm. Loveridgei and regius have the
following in common: Above, they both have olive rumps; they
both have strongly violet upper tail-coverts (not blue as in all

119

races of mediocris); they have the edges of the greater coverts
and wing feathers edged with the same olive-green (slightly
redder tinged in regius) ; the distribution of the two colours of the
lower surface are the same except that loveridgei is duller red
and more olive-tinged on the sides.

Again loveridgei has an enormous bill, 25 mm. compared
with mediocris , 17-18 mm.; moreaui, 20 mm. (measured in straight
line). It seems best to retain them as species, loveridgei at least.

CINNYRIS VENUSTUS FALKENSTEINI. Purple Yellow-

bellied Sunbird.

This little Sunbird was occasionally seen on the range but
in numbers not nearly approaching mediocris. It was invariably
noted at lower levels amongst the Erythrina-Cussonia-V ernonia
association and among the Acacias.

This race of venustus must meet albiventris somewhere on
the line of the Tsavo. I have the latter from this locality (thus
Friedmann’s map, Bull. 153, U.S. Nat. Mus., p. 358, is incomplete),
and although I previously had falkensteini from Kilimanjaro I
hesitated in suggesting a possible line of contact. In the series
of birds taken on Chyulu are three from the great lava flow
between the two Chyulu ranges. They exhibit characters which
are suggestive of albiventris influence. The lava flow is on the
4,000 foot level and merges on the bush country in which albi-
ventris is found within 10 miles. They are very pale below and
the yellow is streaky — not uniform.

CYANOMITRA OLIVACEA CHYULU. Subsp. Nov.

Chyulu Olive Sunbird.

Where this species occurred, it was in very considerable
numbers. It is of interest to note that at the northern part of
the range, where the mist -forests were restricted in size and less
drenched with heavy banks of mist and dew, and thus consider-
ably drier, the species did not occur, so far as we could ascer-
tain during the month spent in this area. Had it been there we
were bound to have noted it. Another factor which doubtless
has some bearing on its distribution on the hills is that at this
northern end, the two principal plants on which it fed, namely
a species of Leonotis , was only very rarely represented, and the
giant lobelia , which did not occur at all. It was not until we
began to work the larger middle, and the Great Chyulu forest
that it was met with, and at this latter place it was very com-
mon. When I first saw the birds a curious impression was con-
veyed to me: either the birds had salmon-red heads or white
ones. Having shot one, the explanation was forthcoming: the
colour of the head was due to the pollen of the two flowers on

120

which the birds fed, Leonotis giving the red, and Lobelia the
white or yellowish.

At all times of the day, but particularly in the early morn-
ings or toward late afternoon, dozens of these birds could be seen
feeding on the two plants along the forest edges at 5,500 to 7,200
feet. Like many of the larger Sunbirds they are quarrelsome
and drive each other off when intentionally or not two birds
came too close to one another. The Leonotis and Lobelias in
this place grow to an immense height, often 15-25 feet and more,
and they were in bloom throughout the two months we were
resident at the middle and south end. There was thus ample
opportunity for observing these birds. They were by no means
restricted to feeding on the two plants mentioned, for one often
saw them as members of a “ drive ” through the forest canopy;
under such circumstances, they were feeding entirely on insects
and spiders. Examination of many stomachs showed the food
to consist of the two just mentioned, and nectar. A few nests
were located, and all were within the forest but usually high
up on an exposed twig at the end of a branch overhanging an
edge of a clear patch in the forest. One nest was suspended

from the end of a giant fern frond. No eggs were seen, only

nestlings, and these were probably of a second brood, for most
of the young birds were on the wing (May). The nest conformed
to those of the race changamwensis which I had previously taken
at the coast.

It was my custom to take a stroll along one of the numerous
cuttings I had made through the forest just about sunset, in
order to observe various birds about to seek their roosting places.
This species seemed to exhibit a preference for well-leaved
saplings where complete protection could be obtained from the
bitterly cold wind and dense mist which usually came over just
after sunset. One favourite spot occupied nightly by a pair was
in the top of a dense clump of tall Piper, the large leaves of
which gave ample shelter. I might mention in passing that
several species of birds which hunted in the canopy resorted to
the mid and undergrowth for sleeping purposes, conspicuous
amongst such were the Zoster ops. There was always much
commotion before they went to roost. The roosting place would
be visited, flown away from, and revisited several times before
they finally settled down.

Taxonomic Note.

In order to appreciate the position of these birds in relation
to the other races present in Eastern Europe, I have arranged
my series, some 200 specimens, in groups representing their
distribution. I have also had before me the recently published

121

views of J. Vincent (Ibis, 1934, pp. 85-92). On reading his
remarks regarding the hitherto unquestioned race changamwen-
sis, Meams, I am left with the doubt as to whether he had a
series representative of this race; for whereas he mentions his
comparative material in the^case of other races, he here refers
to the original description only and not to material. Under the
circumstances I am not satisfied with the conclusions he has come
to regarding the “ sinking ” of changamwensis under the race
olivacina of Peters from Inhambane. When we turn to his remarks
regarding Neumann’s race neglecta of Kibwezi, we find he has
adopted a rather dangerous procedure in assuming that birds
from Usambara, his only comparative material, are identical with
Kibwezi specimens. Those who know the type of country round
Kibwezi and thus have an idea of the ecological factors of the
region, are not a little surprised that Usambara birds, which, as
Vincent tells us on the authority of Moreau, “ are never seen out
of the rain-forest,” but see Moreau, Ibis, 1937, p. 333, should be
accepted as typical of birds inhabiting not rain-forest, but forests
composed largely of Acacias, Figs, Commifera, Euphorbia, and a
few other species only along the water courses or lava flows, and
at the most can only be termed closed forest of a specialised type.
We can assume then that he had no topotypical material of
neglecta for this critical analysis.

Through the kindness of Mr. Kinnear of the British Museum,
I have now had the opportunity of examining material collected
by Vincent, and identified by him as olivacina, Peters, from
Mozambique Prov., P.E.A.

I am entirely satisfied that olivacina is more washed with
greenish below, less greyish, than changamwensis, Mearns;
furthermore, the head-mantle colour of olivacina is purer green,
less tinged with olive.

I therefore support chamgamwensis as a good race, and thus
disagree with Vincent, who sinks this into olivacina. Moreover,
through the great kindness of Mr. Moreau, I have been able to
examine a series of Olive Sunbirds from the Pugu Forest, west
of Dar-es-Salaam (thus from a locality cutting in between
olivacina and changamwensis) and from Mafia Island.*

Although these agree with changamwensis in the greyish,
less green-wash of the underside, they differ in being darker
green on head and mantle and the bills are shorter, more robust
and straighter for the basal half, then turn down, whereas
changamwensis has the curve starting at the forking of the lower
mandible; thus more curved, and it is more slender.

* This race is being described by me in the B.B.O.C.

122

The Chyulu birds are not neglecta of which I have topo-
typical material as well as material from nearby similar areas.
They are darker purer greyish-olive-green, not olive-green with
a yellow tinge; the head is darker than the mantle; the blackish
areas on the primaries and secondaries are blacker, less brown-
tinged; the margins of these and the coverts are purer green; the
tails differ in the same respects as the wings; the cheeks are
darker green with very little flecking; the under-surface is
clearer grey on the belly, with a yellowish wash centrally, and
greenish on the flanks; chin and throat washed yellowish-green.

Type: Male, Chyulu Mts., 14/7/38, 7,000 feet. Coryndon
Museum Expedition, 1938. Forty skins, 6,000-7,200 feet. A
montane race, inhabiting the mist-evergreen forests of the
Chyulu Mountains. Wing measurements: Males, 62-67 mm.;
av. 65 mm. Females, 56-60 mm.; av. 57 mm.

ANTHREPTES COLLARIS nr. TEITENSIS. Yellow-breasted

Green Sunbird.

This species was very scarce on the range. Why, it is diffi-
cult even to suggest. Two specimens only were obtained from
the canopy of a large forest tree.

While dealing with Sunbirds, I should like to take this
opportunity of directing attention to the probability that Anth -
reptes yokanae, Hartert, described from a very long series taken
at Rabai, Kenya Coastal Forest, is allied to GUNNINGIA
REICHENOWI, Gunning, described from Beira, Jrl. S.A. Orn.
Union, 1909.

It will be remembered that Roberts proposed the new generic
name for the bird originally described as Anthreptes.

PLOCEIDAE.

DINEMELLIA DINEMELLI. White-headed Buffalo-Weaver.

Only found in the drier parts of the range such as on the
low lava flows at 4,000-5,000 feet. A few flocks were seen and
a couple of specimens procured. They are very much darker,
blacker on the back than any of a long series of 40 skins from
elsewhere. We know, of course, that these birds are very liable
to staining by soil, especially laterite earth which browns them
readily, but these birds are very dark on the mantle and pure
white below.

PLOCEUS REICHENOWI REICHENOWI.

Reichenow’s Masked Black and Yellow Weaver.

This was a very common species all along the forest patches
throughout the range. A large number of birds were in the sub-

123

adult plumage. Two young in nestling plumage were secured,
18/5/38; the remainder of the series are adult males and females.

These birds are almost as active as Warblers and other
mainly insectivorous birds, in their search for insects, and one
found on examination of stomachs, that fully sixty per cent, of
the food taken consisted of insects and spiders, and numerous
moth larvae. One noted the birds scanning the beard-moss and
lianas for insects. The species was recorded from 4,000-7,000 feet.

PLOCEUS NIGRICOLLIS MELANOXANTHUS.

Black-mantled Weaver.

Very few of this species were noted, most of them at the
forest edges. The stomachs contained mainly insects. The
male has rather more chestnut wash over the breast than usual.

PLOCEUS OCULARIUS SUAHELICUS. East African

Spectacled Weaver.

A common species found to be plentiful in the open bush
and lesser forest patches from 4,000-6,000 feet. Here again,
insects were very largely consumed as well as green shoots and
small berries.

ANAPLECTES MELANOTIS. Masked Red-headed Weaver.

A few of these birds were noted amongst the Erythrina trees
on the range at 4,500 feet, but they were numerous on the plains
below at 3,000 feet, not in flocks, but in pairs or singly. I have
noted them as nesting in the Kilimanjaro area in January-
February.

AMBL Y OSPIZ A ALBIFRONS UNICOLOR. Coast Grosbeak

Swamp Weaver.

This species was seldom noted on the higher portions of the
range but was plentiful in the old cultivations at the foot of the
hills and nested in the valleys where “ bamboo ” grass up to 10
feet high covered the depressions. One found them at the
water-drip in the afternoon about 4 o’clock in association with
other weavers and finches.

EUPLECTES CAPENSIS XANTHOMELAS. Yellow-rumped

Bishop Weaver.

Was noted in small companies on the lower slopes and lava
flows and each evening at the water-drip. The highest level
where these birds were seen was at 6,500 feet in a shallow valley
where tall bamboo grass was plentiful. Several immature of
the season just over were present in the flocks. All the males
were in full plumage with the exception of one sub-adult which
was moulting in the yellow rump feathers. Two females are in
heavy moult.

124

QUELEA QUELEA INTERMEDIA. Masked Weaver Finch.

Very few were seen, and these had come up to drink at
evening. Many were noted in the valley below and around the
old plantations.

CRYPTOSPIZA SALVADORII CHYULXJENSIS. Subsp. Nov.

Chyulu Crimson-wing Forest Finch.

This forest Finch is one of the most difficult birds to collect,
yet it is comparatively common. When the first two specimens
were taken, i at once observed that they were very much darker
than any race I had hitherto examined, and a very close look-
out was kept for further material. My previous experience has
been that where one has obtained this species in a given spot,
one can count on obtaining others. Two weeks elapsed before
we located them again, and by noting carefully what these birds
were feeding on (grass seeds obtainable only in forest or forest
edges, mainly species of Setaria ) we subsequently procured a
very long series from places where we had noted these grasses
growing in abundance, in more or less open places in the dense
forest. One had to approach these spots slowly and carefully
for these birds take fright easily and slip up into the mid-growth
and one would never guess that they were in the vicinity. They
were very much more numerous in the Great Chyulu forest than
in any other part of the range. The only note one heard them
utter was a low “ chip-chip ” as they flew off when disturbed.
On no occasion did one see these birds fully exposed except when
one had noted them slipping up into the mid-growth; they fed
on the lower sprays of grass seed which had bent over amongst
the leaves. I had noticed a similar behaviour with the Kenya
highlands race wherever I have met with it. The species occa-
sionally appear in the museum grounds where remnants of the
old forest still survive. As soon as the birds are disturbed, they
go up into the thick foliaged mid-growth. Moreau (Ibis, 1933, p.
411) states that the species Reichenowi sanguineolenta= ocularis
disappears “ into the thickest ground-cover,” and presumably
stay there, for he adds “ they do not appear to rise more than
a dozen feet above the ground except when visiting their nests.”
No nests of the Chyulu birds were found, but that of S. ruwenzori
is built of grass and tendrils, and formed into a ball slightly
longer than broad with an opening towards the top and side,
and situated hardly more than 6-12 feet up in saplings or some-
times in lianas. The nesting season must have been over by
the first week of May, for we only observed young in first
nestling plumage during May to July. They are paler, more
buffy below and have much less crimson on the back and wings
than adults; they are very like the race borealis of Mt. Uraguess.

125

Taxonomic Note.

I have already alluded to the fact that the Chyulu birds are
very much darker below than the race of the Kenya highlands
and Uganda, all said to be ruwenzori. In addition they are very
much darker on the head, more greenish; and the crimson areas
are richer. The colour of the abdomen, crissum, and under tail-
coverts is darker. They are thus nearest to the recently
described kilimensis, Sclater and Moreau (B.B.O.C., Vol. lv, p.
13), but they are even darker than that race, six examples of
which have been examined by me. Type : Male, Chyulu, Camp
3, 6,800 feet, 30/6/38. Coryndon Museum Expedition, 1938.
Paratypes 26 specimens.

LAGONOSTICTA RUBRICATA HILDEBRANDTI.

Black-vented Fire Finch.

These Fire Finches were noted in the lesser forests and on
the forest edges where particular grasses were in seed. A female
obtained on 8/5/38 was heavy in egg and was about to lay. This
was one of the few birds which, at the beginning of our visit,
was still nesting. A male obtained on 17/7/38 had enlarged but
softening testes. Noted from 4,500 to 6,500 feet.

Taxonomic Note.

A very careful survey of these little finches will have to be
carried out in order to arrive at a correct idea of their relation-
ship. Not the least important point in working out distribution
and species will be environment. There are at least four names
devised for the larger Fire Finches of Kenya, including Kilima-
njaro. A point which must be kept in mind is that there are
two groups, one associated with forest land, the other with dry
thornbush, thus it will be necessary to ascertain the exact type
locality and have a knowledge of the ecological factors of that
place. For example, we have the name hildebrandti applied to
a bird taken in Ukamba, a district of several hundred square
miles with varying altitude, climate, and vegetation. I have
provisionally placed the Chyulu birds as this race : Moreau does
the same for the Usambara birds. The two species, of which
there are many within Kenya and Uganda, are rubricata and
jamesoni.

COCCOPYGIA MELANOTIS KILIMENSIS. Grey-headed

Grass Finch.

Several small companies, parents with young, were noted on
the edges of the forest at 4,500 to 6,500 feet, feeding on grass
seeds. One sometimes found them in the middle of a forest
where there was an open space and grass. They were also noted
in deserted “ shambas.”

126

ESTRILDA ASTRILD MINOR ^ MASSAICA.

Red-eyebrowed Grass Finch.

Several small flocks were noted at several portions of the
range, but they were most numerous in the old cultivations on
the eastern side. 4,000-6,5000 feet.

ESTRILDA RHODOPYGA CENTRALIS. Buff-breasted

Grass Finch.

This species was invariably found at lower levels than the
previous one, that is, it did not range so high, and no birds were
noted above the 4,500 line. It was, however, very numerous at
3,000 feet. My experience has been that this species is to be
found most frequently in the open grass country where scattered
clumps of bush occur around which certain grasses are asso-
ciated. I have noted them to be very partial to the “ sticky
grass ” which frequently overgrows deserted cultivations.

ESTRILDA CHARMOSYNA KIWANUKAE. Black-faced

Grass Finch.

In the Erythrina associations where grasses had grown to a
considerable height, owing to the shelter and protection afforded,
several pairs of this finch were flushed on different occasions.
They do not associate in flocks, and at the most one may see half
a dozen birds together; parents with young. The nest of this
bird is very similar to that of other Estrilda, but I have not noted
the super-structure so frequently found in E. estrild. Placed
very low in a bush surrounded by grass, these nests are much
more hidden than those of other species. The eggs are pure
white; usually four in number. The hen bird sits very close.

FRINGILLIDAE.

POLIOSPIZA ANGOLENSIS REICHENOWI.

Yellow-rumped Grey Serin.

This species was plentiful in the lower and intermediate
zones of the hill where they were noted feeding on the seeds of
certain composites, including Bidens. They were also noted to
feed on the half-formed seeds of the wild Blue Lupin. Altitude
range 3,000-5,000 feet.

SPINUS CITRINELLOIDES CHYULU. Subsp. Nov.

Chyulu Grey-faced Serin.

Hitherto the nearest relative of the Chyulu bird was
recorded from Kilimanjaro and Usambara south to Nyasaland
under the name hypostictus, Reichenow, type locality Moshi. I

127

found the species to be numerous on the Chyulu Range at
altitudes of 4,000-7,000 feet and a long series was collected. At
the lower limits of its distribution it was scarce, but at 5,000 feet,
pairs and small companies were numerous, feeding on the seeds
of a wild sunflower and other composites; it was only slightly less
abundant at 6,500 all along the edges of the forest where these
composites grew in profusion. Two nests were found in small
Erythrina trees growing at the edge of a valley forest; almost
fully fledged young were present, so this bird may be considered
one of the late breeders on the range.

Taxonomic Note.

These birds were plentiful on the Chyulu Range at altitudes
varying from 4,000-7,000 feet, and were most numerous at the
5,000 level. I have compared them with topotypical hypostictus
of Kilimanjaro, and the following is a comparative description.

Allied to the race hypostictus, these Chyulu birds differ in
the much richer yellow underparts, with hardly any paling off
of the yellow on the abdomen and crissum; that whilst the breast
is not so heavily streaked, the yellow of the throat goes further
toward the chin; the grey of the chin and the fore-part of the face
is darker, and more restricted. The ear-coverts are darker
green. The green of the crown and mantle is purer, and the
dark streaking is, on the whole, narrower. The rump and upper
tail-coverts are more yellow.

With the exception of one male which is a partial albino,
the series is uniform.

Type: Male, Chyulu Range, 24/4/38, 6,560 feet. Coryndon
Museum Expedition, 1938.

Remarks: Nine males, eight adult females, and two sub-
adults were collected. The wing measurements are as follows:
Males, 65-70 mm.; females, 63-67 mm., thus very similar in size
to the Kilimanjaro race.

128

REFERENCES.

Cabanis, Von der Decken, Reisen in Ost Afrika, 1869.
Bannerman. Bulletin British Ornithologist Club, LVII.
Friedmann. Proceedings, United States National Museum Bull.
153, 1932, 1937.

Friedmann and Loveridge. Museum of Comparative Zoology
Bulletin, 1933, 1937.

Grant, C. H. B. Ibis , 1915.

Grant and Praed Ibis , 1935 , 1936, 1937. Bulletin, British

Ornithologist Club, 1935-38.

Granvik. Journal fur Ornithology , 1923.

Revue Zoologique et Botanique Africaine.

Grote. Ornithologische Monatsbrute , 1928.

Gunning. Journal South African Ornithologist Union, 1909.
Loveridge. Bulletin Museum of Comparative Zoology, 1937.
Loveridge and Peters. Bulletin Museum Comparative Zoology,
1936

Loveridge and Bangs. Bulletin Museum Comparative Zoology,
1936.

Lynes. Journal fur Ornithology, 1934.

Meinertzhagen. Ibis, 1937.

Moreau. Proceedings of the Zoological Society, 1936.

Ibis, 1937, 1938.

Bulletin of the Ornithologists’ Club, 1937.

Oberholser. Proceedings of the United States National Museum,
Vol. 30.

Ogilvie-Grant. Transactions of the Zoological Society, Vol.
XIX.

Sclater. Systema Avium Aethiopicarum, 1929.

Bulletin British Ornithologists’ Club, 1922, 1935, 1937,
1938.

Ibis, 1933.

in Jackson’s “ Birds of Kenya and Uganda,” 1938.
van Someren. Novitates Zoologicae, 1922, 1932.

Journal East Africa and Uganda Natural History
Society, 1925.

Bulletin British Ornithologists’ Club, 1938.
Vincent. Ibis, 1934, 1935, 1936, 1937.

Bulletin British Ornithologist Club, 1937.

129

Part 3.

BUTTERFLIES OF THE CHYULU RANGE.

A systematic list of the species taken by the Museum
Expedition to the Hills. April-July, 1938.

V. G. L. van Someren, F.L.S., F.R.E.S., Etc.
Introduction.

The following account of the Lepidoptera (Rhopalocera)
taken by members of the Museum Expedition to the Chyulu
Range, is mainly a systematic list of the species obtained.

At the time of the visit, April to July, 1938 (that is just
toward the end, and after the long rains) insect life was remark-
ably scarce, and although systematic search was made over all
portions of the hills from 3,000 to 7,000 feet, at no time were
butterflies numerous. The material taken can be considered
representative of the range for that particular season, but there
is little doubt that insect life would be more plentiful just after
the short rains, as it undoubtedly is on the surrounding plains,
especially in the Kibwezi-Voi areas.

In spite of the paucity of insect life, certain new records have
been established, thus Papilio hornimani is recorded for the first
time from within Kenya boundaries, although known for many
years to inhabit the forests of Mt. Kilimanjaro. Char axes ful -

vescens nr. acuminatus, also of Tanganyika, was taken on the
range. Two new races of Liptenines of the genus Pentila are
recorded, whilst a new Acraea, a new Papilio , and a new race of
Amauris are described.

The Lepidoptera collected have a definite relationship to the
vegetational zones and the distribution of certain plant species at
various altitudes and portions of the hills.

In the systematic list which follows an indication is given of
the altitude range of each species so far as we were able to judge
during the comparatively short stay on the hills.

Family: PAPILIONIDAE.

1. PAPILIO DARD ANUS TIBULLUS, Kirby.

This species was not found on the northern or central portions
of the range, but was comparatively common at the southern end
along the forest margins. It was not seen in the actual forest but
always at the edges where sunlight penetrated; the interior of

130

8 9

Figs. 1 and 2. Pentila amenaida chyulu. Subsp. nov.
Fig. 3. Kedestes nerva , Fab.

Fig. 4. Papilio hornimani. Dist.

Figs. 5 — 7. Acraea anacreon chyulu. Subsp. nov.
Figs. 8 — 9. Pentila peucetia chyuluensis. Subsp. nov.

Figs. 1 & 2. Papilio brontes desmondi. Subsp. nov.
Figs. 3 & 4. Papilio brontes brontes .

the Great Chyulu forest was too damp and dark for most species
of diurnal lepidoptera. The food plant of the species was present
in the lesser forests of the northern portions of the hills but there
was no continuity between these forest patches and the lowland
forests at 3,000-4,000 feet, whereas at the southern end there was
a gradual merging of the low mixed forest with that of the moun-
tain forest through ravine and valley forests in at least one point.
The species was abundant in the low mixed forests on the lava
flows between Noka and the main range. The twenty-odd males
collected are remarkably uniform; all have a continuous heavy
black band on the hind wing. Three forms of female were
taken: hippocoon, a variation of cenea and an intermediate
between the vars. salaami and mixta with the sub-apical f.-w. bar
confluent with the light orange spot in the apex of the cell. The
first two forms were numerous as were the respective models,
Amauris niavius dominicanus, and Amauris ( albimaculata )
hanningtoni. The altitudinal range of the species was 3,000-7,000
feet. The hippocoon form of female predominated in the low
forests, whereas the cenea form was more plentiful on high
ground, the two forms being in definite ratio to the abundance of
their respective models. The species was bred from larva obtained
on the hills.

2. PAPILIO ECHEROIDES, Trim.

A common species throughout the range, on the whole more
numerous at the north and central portions. Males out-num-
bered the females on the edges of the forests, but just within the
marginal growth, especially at the north end, females were
common. On the wing they bear a strong resemblance to their
models, Amauris hanningtoni and A. echeria nr. jacksoni. This
species was also bred on the hills from eggs and found larvae.
They were raised on Tecle a. Altitude 4,000-7,000 feet.

3. PAPILIO CONSTANT1NUS, Ward.

Although extremely plentiful in the plains country, only one
specimen was taken on the range at 4,500 feet.

4. PAPILIO PHORCAS nr. ansorgei.

Very few examples of this species were noted, and all were
in very worn condition. Two males were taken at 6,000 feet.
The species is very plentiful in the plains country around Kibwezi.

5. PAPILIO HORNIMANI, Dist.

Hitherto recorded only from Tanganyika, we found this
species to be quite common at the northern end of the range. It
did not occur in the southern portion. The reason for this break

131

in its distribution is difficult to understand. There was, how-
ever, a definite association between this species and P. brontes.
There is a distinct resemblance on the wing and on the ground,
when the wings are closed; and indeed their distribution tallied,
for the latter was distinctly rare in the southern part of the range.
The 14 males taken are very uniform; the only variation is in the
number of blue spots at the apex of the fore-wing, being either
one, two, or three. Two females were captured and confined in
cages to obtain eggs; the larvae subsequently obtained were not
reared owing to lack of food after leaving the hills.

6. PAP1LIO BRONTES DESMOND!. Subsp. Nov.

As indicated under the previous species, these butterflies
were very numerous at the first camp toward the northern portion
of the range. They were certainly the common Papilio of the
area. The forests at this portion of the hills were not very thick
and more or less clear of heavy undergrowth in most instances.
Thus one found this species inside the forests, but to a far greater
extent on the outer margins where indeed most of the flowering
herbs, on which they fed, for example Pentas, occurred. Apart
from forest one noted the species in numbers at the “water drip”
drinking at the moist earth below the water troughs. We
attracted this species and P. homimani to the door of our tents by
keeping a small area wet with waste water; we were thus able
to secure a long series with little effort. The series is very
uniform, all but two of the males exhibit a considerable expan-
sion of the blue band in la and lb. The females have narrower
fore-wing bars.

Description :

This race of Papilio brontes is in general shape very similar
to P. bromius chrapkowskii, i.e. it has the same elongation of the
posterior angle of the hind-wing; it, however, is to be distin-
guished at a glance from this species by the shape and colour of
median band above, and the size and shape of the submarginal
creamy spots on the underside of the fore-wing. From the
nominate race of brontes of Kilimanjaro area, with an extension
to the Teita Hills (Mbololo, Wandanyi, and Bura) this new race
differs in the shape of the median blue band, which in the fore-
wing is less triangular in outline; slightly concave on its inner
side, for the blue does not reach the base of area 2, and on its
outer side it is more strongly dentate, but not so inclined toward
the hind angle: thus narrower than in brontes brontes. In the
hind-wing the median band is almost parallel sided in its middle
section, maintaining an almost straight line on its outer aspect,
it tapers rapidly toward a white spot, marginal in lb.

132

The fore-wing margin is more falcate, whilst the hind-wing
is more strongly dentate, the end of vein 4 being extended to
form a truncated “ tail.” The sub-marginal row of blue spots in
the hind-wing are larger and in the fore-wing there are small
double blue spots in areas la-5.

On the under surface, the fore and hind-wing submarginal
bands differ considerably as can be seen from the illustrations.

The female differs from the male in that the fore-wing median
band is narrower. Type, male, Chyulu Range, 6,800 feet, April,
1938. Coryndon Museum Expedition, 1938. Taken by Desmond
van Someren. Alt. range, 5,000-7,200 feet. Described from a
series of fifty specimens.

General remarks: Examples of this race together with
nomino-typical brontes were submitted to Dr. Karl Jordan, who

writes as follows : “ Papilios from Chyulu The general

aspect is very misleading. It is a subspecies of P. brontes, differ-
ing markedly from P. brontes brontes in the shape of the median
band and in the shape of the hind-wing. The harpe of the
clasper has the characteristic shape of the harpe of P. brontes ,
elongate-oblong, flat, with two narrow sharply pointed, widely
separated, curved, apical horns; in the Chyulu males the harpe
is narrower than in brontes from Wandanyi and Kilimanjaro.
.... The Chyulu subspecies is interesting, as it bears a super-
ficial resemblance to P. bromius chrapkowskii. I think P. brontes
is a species distinct from P. bromius ”

In describing the Chyulu race I have accepted the suggestion
that P. brontes is a species.

It is a matter of considerable interest to note that P. brontes
desmondi was extremely plentiful on the Chyulu range from a
level of 5,000 feet and up to 7,200 feet. It was associated with
Papilio hornimani and was indeed difficult to distinguish from
that species except by its smaller size, and absence of long tails,
which could only be noted on close examination.

7. PAPILIO NIREUS LYAEUS, Dbl.

This species was not found on the range. Only one example
was obtained at the south end at 4,500 feet. It was one of the
commonest species on the plains especially at Kibwezi.

8. PAPILIO DEMODOCUS, Esp.

Was only seen on the lower larva flows at 4,000 feet and did
not occur on the hills proper.

No other Papilios were noted on the hills, but several species
were common on the plains.

133

PIERIDAE.

9. LEPTOSIA ALCESTA, Cr.

Abundant in the more open forests of the northern end and
occasionally noticed in the Great Chyulu Forest of the south.
Eggs and larva were noted on species of Capparis. 4,000-5,600 feet.

10. HERPAENIA ER1PHIA, Godt.

A common species along the margins of the northern forests
and on the great lava flow between the main range and the South
Chyulus. It was very much more numerous on the plains.

11. MYLOTHORIS AGATH1NA, Cr.

Was noted as plentiful in the northern and central portions
of the range between 4,500 and 6,000 feet, frequenting the lesser
forests and the edges of the larger patches, particularly in the
vicinity of trees which carried quantities of Loranthus on which
both eggs and larvae were found. Two species of Loranthus ,
dregei, and woodfordoides were the chief food plants, on the
range, while on the plains panganensis, parasitic on Sterculea sp.
was infected.

The sexes were noted in about equal proportions, whilst the
orange females outnumbered the form approaching the male
colouration.

12. MYLOTHRIS RUEPELLI, Koch.

This species was very common, more particularly in the
central and southern portions of the hills. The larvae fed on
Loranthus woodfordioides, 5,000-7,000 feet.

13. MYLOTHRIS SAGALA.

A common species, noted throughout the range from 5,000-
7,000 feet. The series taken during April to July are uniform in
that there are no marginal black spots to the hind-wing in either
sex. I have not designated the actual race or form as there is
still considerable uncertainty as to grouping of this species. The
series taken do not agree with material from the Teita Hills nor
yet with a long series from near Nairobi.

14. GLUTOPHRISSA EPAPHIA , Cr.

This species was seen all along the range. Males predomi-
nated. The females taken are of the wet-season form. As there
were no Phrissura present on the hills one is justified in assuming
that all the males of this group one noted, were of this species. In
localities where Ph. udei occurs along with G. epaphia males are
impossible to distinguish on the wing.

134

15. PIERIS MARGAR1TACEA.

Examples of this species, which would appear to be a distinct
species from raffrayi (for both occur together over a wide range,
without interbreeding) were noted on the southern portion of
the range at between 6,000-7,000 feet. Chyulu examples belong
to the Teita race which is distinct from either the typical race
from Mau and Sotik, or the Meru race somereni, which has
a very rich orange on the underside. Only males were secured,
though a few females were noted. It was not common.

16. BELENOIS SEVERINA, Cr.

17. BELENOIS MESENTINA, Cr.

18. BELENOIS ZOCHALIA, Bdv.

These three species were well represented on the hills and
were mostly found along the forest margins where flowering
herbs were most plentiful. Of the three species zochalia was by
far the commonest. Three forms of females of this last were
taken in about equal numbers. 4,000-6,800 feet.

19. BELENOIS THYSA, Hpff.

This was a common species at the southern portion of the
range more particularly at the 6,000 feet level, though it also
occurred at lower levels. Its distribution was largely governed
by the distribution of food plants which existed along the forest
edges and not on the grass lands. One noted the species flying
over the moorlands but there was a definite concentration along
the high forest margins. Two types of female were taken; the
orange-buff variety being numerous and in association with the
female of Mylothris agathina of more or less the same colour.

20. TERACOLUS CELIMENE, Luc.

Very few of this species were noted on the hills, but it was
plentiful in the low country.

21. TERACOLUS HETAERA, Gerst.

Occasionally seen on the lower levels at 5,000 feet; most of
the specimens taken were from the Noka road at 3,000 feet. Males
and females are of the dry season form.

22. TERACOLUS ER1S , Klug.

Not seen on the range proper but numerous on the great lava
flow at the south end.

23. TERACOLUS ACHINE, Cr.

135

24. T. OMPHALE, Godt.

25. T. ANTIGONE, Bdv.

26. T. DA1RA, Klug.

Examples of these Teracoli were taken sparingly on the hills
in the moorlands, but the country was definitely unsuited to this
group, doubtless owing to the damp and cold, and lack of the
food plant. They were, of course, very numerous all through the
thorn bush of the plains at 3,000-4,000 feet.

27. TERACOLUS INCRETUS, Btl.

Numerous on the plains. Very few seen on the lower hill
lands at 5,000 feet

28. ERONIA THALASSINA, Bdv.

Though noted at various places along the range, this species
was by no means common. It was not seen above 6,000 feet, but
was numerous on the lower ground of the plains.

29. CATOPSILIA FLORELLA, F.

Only once seen on the main range at 5,600 feet, but very
plentiful on the lower levels at 3,000-4,000 feet.

30. TERIAS SENEGALENSIS , Bdv.

This species was widely distributed along the hills but
nowhere numerous. 5,000-6,000 feet.

31. TERIAS BRIGITTA , Cr.

Fairly plentiful, more so toward the southern portion of the
range. The form zoe was not numerous.

32. TERIAS REGULARIS, Btlr.

Was only met with in the low country around the lava flows
at 4,000 feet.

33. TERIAS nr. MARSHALL!.

This form was very numerous all along the hills from 4,000
feet to 6,500 feet. The collection contains a long series, which is
very uniform in both sexes, taken from April to July.

34. COLIAS ELECTO, L.

Was plentiful in the high ground up to 7,000 feet, but most
numerous at about 6,000 feet. Both the pale and the dark forms
of females were taken in about equal numbers.

136

DANAIDXDAE.

35. DAN AIDA CHRYSIPPUS , L.

The species was common throughout the grass lands of the
range and along the clumps of bush where various species of
Asclepiads were growing. It is of interest to note that of the
long series taken, all, with the exception of one, are of the form
DORIPPUS, Klug. The exception is the form albinus. The
typical form was noted as plentiful on the lower ground at 3,000-
4,000 feet.

36. MELINDA FORMOSA , Godm.

Several examples of this species were noted at the southern
forests; it was absent from the northern portions.

37. AMAURIS NIAVIUS DOM1NICANUS, Trim.

A common species most plentiful in the lower mixed forests,
but extending up the hills to the 6,000 foot level. The mimetic
female form of Dardanus, hippocoon, was often seen in associa-
tion with this insect.

38. AMAURIS ( albimaculata ) HANNINGTON1, Btlr.

A very long series was taken. They are very constant in
type. This species was frequently noted passing over the open
moorlands some distance from forests. Larva and eggs were
taken on creeping Asclepiad in the forest. It was certainly the
commonest Amauris of the range and acted as model for P.
dardanus , f. cenea and the females of P. echeroides. Females
were as numerous as males and the species was about equally
distributed along the range.

38a. AMAURIS ECHERIA CHYULUENS1S. Subsp. Nov.

The form of this species found on the range differs from the
nomino-typical jacksoni from Kericho-Sotik area in haying a
much paler hind-wing patch with a greater extension of this
pale ochreous area towards the hind angle; the sub-marginal spot-
ting is paler: there is an even more marked difference between
the females of this race and typical jacksoni. Besides the much
paler-cream- hind-wing patch, the sub-marginal and marginal
spots are more numerous and larger and white. A long series
of over 30 was taken. Type: Male, Chyulu Hills, April, 1938.
Coryndon Museum Expedition.

There is a close resemblance between this insect and the
pale race of A. albimaculata, hanningtoni; in fact they cannot be
told apart when on the wing. They may be distinguished in the

137

hand in that A. a. hanningtoni has a pale lower surface to the
abdomen, and of course, the “ brand 5’ is of a different shape.

Distribution: This pale race of echeria ranges over the
Chyulu and Teita Hills.

ACRAEIDAE.

39. PLANEMA AGANICE MONTANA, Btlr.

Was noted and obtained along the edges of the Great Chyulu
Forests. The females were noted in association with the black
and white form of Acraea esehria.

40. ACRAEA ESEBRIA, Hew.

Noted only in the southern parts of the range. Three forms
of females are in the series taken : esehria, monteironis , and jack -
soni. The females were taken laying on a creeper Urerea sp.
( Urticaceae ).

41. ACRAEA JOHNSTONI, Godm.

Was occasionally seen on the edges of the southern forests,
at 6,000 feet.

42. ACRAEA CABIRA, Hpff.

This was the commonest of the smaller species of Acraea and
occurred all along the forest margins throughout the range. It
is worthy of note that on this range, the form is entirely different
to that on the Teita hills a little to the south.

43. ACRAEA ACERATA, Hew.

This was a scarce species and very few were noted and always
at the northern and central portion of the hills.

44. ACRAEA TERPSICHORE, L.

Although found on the hills, this species was far more numer-
ous on the lower ground at 3,500 feet. A long series was bred
from larvae found on Triumfetta sp. It is noteworthy that the
female form produced was scarce on the hills.

45. ACRAEA NA.TALICA, Bdv.

A common species, particularly plentiful on the lower ground
but extending on to the hills up to 6,000 feet. The larvae were
found feeding on a species of creeping Adenia. Five forms of
females are included in the long series taken.

138

46. ACRAEA CAECILIA, F.

A few specimens were noted at the 4,000 level but below this
it was very common.

47. ACRAEA BRAESIA, Godm.

Plentiful at 3,000 feet, but seldom noted on the hills at the

5.000 level.

48. ACRAEA AEQUATORIALIS ANAEMIA , Eltr.

This was a common species in the northern and central por-
tions of the range all over the grass lands. It was noted to lay
on a small species of Passiflor ( Adenia sp.) which grew in
abundance in the grass, and from this plant several mature larvae
were secured. The pupae were found hanging on adjacent grass
stems. It is to be noted that the nominate race also feeds on an
allied though distinct species of Passiflor. There is a very con-
siderable variation in the female forms.

49. ACRAEA ACRITA , Hew., pudorina, Stgr.

Throughout the grasslands of both the hills and the low
country — 6,000-3,000 feet — this species was plentiful. Males are
of two types, a dry form in which the marginal loops are obscure
and the other in which these are clear and well defined. Six of
the females are of the very dark blackish type.

50. ACRAEA EGINA ARECA, Mab.

Rather scarce on the range, but plentiful at below 4,000 feet.

51. ACRAEA ZETES ACARA, Hew.

The 5,600 feet level appeared to be the upper limit of this
species, where a few were noted and obtained. At 3,000 and

4.000 feet it was more plentiful.

52. ACRAEA ANEMOSA, Hew.

Was only taken at the base of the hills at 4,000 feet.

53. ACRAEA BAXTERI, E. Sharpe.

This was entirely a montane species and kept to the borders
of forest at 5,500 to 6,500 feet. It was frequently seen feeding
on the flower heads of certain tree Umbelliferae quite out of
reach and when disturbed would sail over the tops of the forest
trees. A small series was obtained and these should be referred
to the form subsquamia, Thur. When seen from below, with the
sunlight overhead, the red of the wings shows up as orange. They
then bear a strong resemblance to a diurnal moth which was
plentiful throughout the range. This moth is highly distasteful

139

and it would seem that the butterflies derive added protection
from their resemblance to it.

54. ACRAEA NEQBULE, Dbl. and Hew.

Present on the range but in small numbers; plentiful on the
lower slopes and on the plains.

55. ACRAEA ANACREON CHYULU, Sbsp. Nov.

A series of this interesting insect was taken along the forest
margins at the central and southern portions of the range on the
eastern side at altitudes of 5,500-7,000 feet. They bear a super-
ficial resemblance to A. rahira and A. anacreon anacreontica but
differ from both in many respects.

Examples of these insects were submitted to Prof. Carpenter,
and Capt. Riley oi the British Museum. The latter writes as
follows : “ Although there is nothing in our series (of anacreon)
quite like your two specimens, I feel sure that they are a race of

that species If this pair represents a constant race, then

I should think that van Someren would be quite justified in
describing it.” As the nineteen examples show a remarkable
degree of constancy, I have no hesitation in describing them as
a new race.

Type: Male, Chyulu hills, 6,500 feet, June, 1938.

Male, upperside: length of f.w., 22 mm., tawny-ochreous with
a suffusion of pink, particularly in basal half. Compared with
the race anacreon anacreontica of the Mara River, Sotik, Lumbwa,
Kavirondo, and Elgon areas, there is a marked reduction in the
number of f.w. spots which are arranged as follows : one in cell,
just beyond mid-point; a larger one at apex of cell at roots of
veins 5-6; a double spot sub-distal in cellule lb, with a spot
directly above it in 2, just distad to origin of vein 3, with another
small one sub-basal in 3. Veins 1-7 blackish scaled distally
toward the margin, shorter and thicker from 1-3, longer and
narrower from 4-7; between the rays a slight increase in the
orange colour. It lacks the submarginal black bar which joins
up the rays m the race anacreontica. Costa, toward distal end
black scaled. There is a small area of blackish scales at the
extreme base of the wing.

H.-w. : Ground colour as in f.-w., but basal area with a greater
amount of black scaling, greater than in the race anacreontica.
The spotting also differs in that the post-disculars are in almost
a straight line from the inner margin at lc-4 then curving up to
about the mid-point, sub-costal in 7. There is one large black
spot in the cell. The marginal border is black, less than 2 mm.
wide and carries orange internervular spots. It will be noted
then that in this race there is no angling of the post-discular spots
at 2, toward the end of the cell as in anacreontica.

140

There is only this slight variation in the males: some few
have an extra small spot in 6, sub-basally.

Undersurface: F.-w., ground colour pinkish-ochreous at
basal half, shading to tawny ochreous distally; distal portions of
veins narrowly black scaled and forming rays; black spot at apex
and mid-cell, other spots of above only faintly indicated.

H.-w., ground colour ochreous with pink suffusion over basal
area. Black spots as above but more distinct with an additional
large spot sub-basal, and a series of three contiguous in la-lc
sub-basal. The two rows of spots are joined up by pink longi-
tudinal marks. Marginal border consisting of contiguous loops
enclosing ochreous spots.

Female, Upperside: F.-w. rather thinly scaled buffy, with
pink tinge in basal half, but basal area blackish scaled. Blackish
spots as in the male but with extra spots sub-basal in 4 and 5.
The margin of the wing orange tinged internervularly. H.-w.,
ground colour as fore-wing, the black spots as in the male, with
rather more black scaling at the base.

Underside: Ground colour buffy ochreous; blackish spots as
in the male; pink quadrate bars between the two rows of spots
very strong and showing through on the upper surface.

The genital armature has been examined by Prof. Carpenter,
who states that it agrees with anacreon in general form.

56. PARDOPSIS PUNCTATISSIMA, Bdv.

Only one specimen was taken on the hills although it was
comparatively common on the lower lava flows in the plains
country, especially in the dongas between the lava outcrops
where vegetatipn was rank and the conditions humid. It was
taken in association with Pentila amenaida.

SATYRIDAE.

57. HENOTESIA PERSPICUA , Trim.

A few were noted in the grass lands bordering the forests and
in dongas.

58. NEOCOENYRA GREGORII, Btlr.

This was the commonest of the small “ Ringlets ” and was
everywhere plentiful along the edges of the forest lands.

59. YPTHIMA ASTEROPE , Klug.

Plentiful in the grass lands, but owing to the continuous
winds, all the specimens seen were very worn and battered.

141

60. MYCALESIS SAFITZA, Hew.

A few were noted in the more open forests of the hills, but
it was most abundant in the mixed forests on the laval ridges
of the plains.

NYMPHALIDAE.

61. CHARAXES HANSAL1 BARANGANA, Rothsch.

One seen on the great lava flow at the south end, but fairly
numerous just before the Ithaba Swamp on the Kibwezi-Chyulu
trail.

62. CHARAXES PELIAS SATURNUS , Btlr.

Common on the plains and very few noted on the lower lava
flows at 4,000 feet.

63. CHARAXES ACHEMENES, Fldr.

On the Noka-Chyulu trail this species was common but
extremely difficult to obtain as they either rested very high up
or amongst thorns, making it impossible to secure them. A male
and female, the latter bearing a very strong resemblance to
saturnus , were secured by climbing the tree on which they were
resting. A few were noted on the great lava flow on the Italweni
path, 4,000 feet.

64. CHARAXES CITHAERON , Fldr.

This was the only species of this group seen on the hills at
6,000 feet. As no specimens were secured, it is impossible to state
whether or not there was any transition to the coastal race
kennethi.

65. CHARAXES ETHEOCLES PICT A, Rothsch.

A few of this species were noted on the Albizzias of the lower
plains. A larva was taken on Acacia mellifera and eggs on
Entada sp. The females taken are of the kirki form.

66. CHARAXES ETHALION, Bdv.

Plentiful on the plains at 3,000-4,000 feet but were only noted
on the hills at the Italweni lava flow, and at 4,500 feet. No
females were taken.

67. CHARAXES JAHLUSA , Trim.

Only females of this species were seen at 4,000 feet in the
abandoned banana shambas. They were feeding on decaying
bananas still on the trees. One pupa was located on a sapling,
obviously not its food plant, and from this a female emerged.

142

68. CHARAXES CANDIOPE, Godt.

This was one of the few species to occur actually on the
mountains at 6,000 feet. They here laid on a sp. of Croton, which
grew in profusion on the tops of certain of the forest hills, and
along the forest edges.

69. CHARAXES FULVESCENS nr. ACUMINATUS , Thurau.
Several of this species were seen from time to time on the

edges of the Great Chyulu forest at the southern end. They
were extremely difficult to secure as they flew high and would
not be attracted to bait. The only specimen obtained was taken
at oozing sap on a tree at about 15 feet. It is noticeable that in
this example the whole of the wing border, fore and hind, are
very much darker than the race which inhabits the Kikuyu
forests; this is especially the case in the hind-wing, so that the
black spotting is almost obscured. The orange spotting on the
fore-wing is smaller, whilst the falcate apex of the wing is of a
different shape. There are other minor differences which need
not be gone into here; suffice it to say that the Uplands race would
appear to be a good one. The characters of the Kenya Highland
race have been detailed in my paper in the Journal of the Society,
Butterflies of Kenya and Uganda, part 7. More material of
acuminatus must be taken before a name can be applied. Larvae
of acuminatus were found on a species of Allophylus, and two
full-grown were recovered from the stomach of a Trogon, Apalo-
derma narina.

70. CHARAXES ZOOL1NA, and

71. NEANTHES.

A few of this species were noted on the lower lava flows,
but it was absent about 4,000 feet owing to absence of the food
plant.

NYMPHALXDAE.

72. NEPTIS SACLAVA MARPESSA, Hpffr.

Sparsely distributed in the drier forests of the northern
portion of the range.

73. NEPTIS AGATHA, Stoll.

This was the common Neptis all along the range and was
found near the Erythrina patches of the lower slopes as well as
on the edges of the forests.

74. NEPTIS SEELDRAYERSI, Auriv.

A few examples of this species were taken at the southern
forests, but it was distinctly scarce.

143

75. BYBLIA ILITHYIA, Drury.

A common species in the tall grass along the forest edges,
particularly in the northern areas.

76. BYBLIA ACHELOIA, Wall.

A few were noted at 5,600 feet at the southern end of the hills.

77. EURYTELA HIARBAS LIT A, Rothsch.

Plentiful in the southern portions of the range and less so in
the middle section. Eggs and larvae were found on the stinging
Euphorbiaceous “ nettle,” just within the forest edges.

78. EURYTELA DRYOPE, Cr.

Comparatively scarce: very few were noted at 6,000 feet on
the south end.

79. HYPOLIMNAS DUBIA MIMA , Trim.

80. f. WAHLBERGI , Wall.

Both males and females of these two forms were in about
equal numbers, more particularly in the southern forest edges,
but they were nowhere common.

81. SALAMIS PARHASSUS AETHIOPS, Pal.

Although met with on the range at altitudes of 5,000-6,500
feet, this species was more abundant in the low mixed forests on
the lava ridges at 3,500-4,000 feet.

82. SALAMIS ANACARDII NEBULOSA, Trim.

Only slightly less numerous than the preceding species and
with a similar distribution, but very often noted in the drier
portions and amongst the Acacia associations of the plains.

83. CATACROPTERA CLOANTHE , Cr.

Not very numerous, but occasionally noted in the grass lands
all along the main range, at 5,000-6,000 feet.

84. PRECIS LIMNORIA TAVETA, Rog.

A few were taken along the forest edges at 5-6,000 feet and
mostly in grass.

85. PRECIS NATALICA, Fldr.

Very few were noted on the range, but the species was
plentiful in the low ground at 3,000-4,000 feet.

86. PRECIS OCT AVIA SESAMUS , Trim.

144

87. /. NATALENSIS, Stgr.

Both wet and dry season forms were sparingly distributed
along the range; they were nowhere common although on the
low ground at 3,000-4,000 feet they were numerous especially in
the shaded dongas between the lava ridges.

88. PRECIS TUG EL A, Trim.

89. f. AURORINA.

Occurred in both the wet and dry forms, but not common on
the range.

90. PRECIS ANTILOPE , Feisth.

Was only noted on the lower ground at 4,500 and below.

91. PYRAMEIS CARDUI, L.

Common all along the hill sides and most conspicuous in the
late afternoon, especially after a shower of rain.

92. ATANARTIA HIPPOMENE, Hbn.

93. A. SCHAENEIA, Trim.

Both species were present throughout the range at 5,000-
6,500 feet and were taken along the forest edges.

94. HAMANUMIDA DAEDALUS , F.

Common all along the plains toward the foothills of the
range, but not seen above 4,000 feet.

LYCAENIDAE.

95. PENTILA AMEN AIDA CHYULU. Subsp. Nov.

In the warm humid dongas between the laval ridges toward
the base of the range, at altitudes of 3,500-4,000 feet this species
was extremely plentiful during the month of April and May.
One noted them in dense numbers clustering around the flower
heads of a Leguminous plant ( Croiolaria sp.?) at the glands
of which ants and Aphids were feeding; on others ants and
Coccids. One was able to capture fifty or more with one
sweep. Associated with this species was Pentila peucetia, Sbsp.
By the end of June, very few specimens were noted, and by
July 20th not a single individual was noted, although hunted for.

As already noted under Pardopsis punctitissima (Acraea),
the two species, bearing a very close resemblance, were asso-
ciated in these dongas.

145

Description: The Chyulu race differs from the coastal
mombasae in having a much wider and darker black border, and
being more strongly and more numerously black spotted in both
fore and hind-wings.

Range: The Chyulu foothills. Although there is some
variation in the coastal race, none are as dark as the Chyulu race
which, in a long series of over fifty, shows a marked uniformity
of colouration.

96. PENTILA PEUCETIA CHYULUENSIS. Subsp. Nov.

This species was common and in association with the

previous one, on the flowering spikes of the Crotalaria. Where
one found up to fifty or so amenaida there would be four to six
of peucetia amongst them. When a sufficient series of the
former had been collected, the capture of peucetia was done with
tweezers or fingers without disturbing the rest of the insects. I
failed to note any insect which could act as a model for this
species and am inclined to think that it is in itself distasteful, for
a yellow secretion from the body has a disagreeable odour.

Description :

These specimens, of which a series of some 30 were taken,,
differ from the coastal race in that the dark areas are blacker,
and the hind-wing has three distinct black spots on the lower side
and two above with the third showing through distinctly.
Although in a long series from the coast two out of twenty show
traces of a third spot toward the costa on the hind-wing, these
are not nearly as large or defined as in the Chyulu material. The
spot on the underside toward the fold of the hind-wing is large;
conversely only two of the Chyulu series have this spot faintly
indicated.

97. TERIOMIMA ASLAUGA.

A few of this species were noted in the humid mixed forests
on the lower levels at 4,000 feet. They did not occur on the
range.

98. HYPOLYCAENA PHILIPPUS , F.

Was very numerous on the lower levels at 3,500-5,000 feet,
but comparatively scarce above that level.

99. DEUDORIX ANTALUS, Hpffr.

Plentiful throughout the acacia and bush country but scarce
on the hills. Larvae were located in seed pods of two species of
legumes.

146

100. EPAMERA SIDUS, Trim.

Was occasionally noted on the range, and larvae were taken
on Loranthus woodjordioides.

101. AXIOCERSES HARPAX , F.

Fairly numerous in the grass lands from 4,000-6,500 feet. In
the early mornings these insects could be taken with the fingers
as they rested benumbed with the cold. They were seldom on
the move until near 11 a.m.

102. LYCAENESTHES LARYDAS KERSTENI, Gerst.

A few were seen and secured, but this group as a whole was
badly represented on the hills.

103. LYCAENESTHES OTACILLIA, Trim.

Found feeding on the flowers of Acacias of the lower levels,
but otherwise not seen on the range. 5,000 feet.

104. CASTALIUS GREGORII.

Only one example was seen and taken at 5,000 feet in the
grass lands.

105. URANOTHAUMA CORDATUS, E. Shp.

A few of this species were taken at damp earth at the edge
of the forest at 5,500-6,500 feet.

106. URANOTHAUMA FALKENSTEINI , Dew.

Fairly common at the higher altitudes 5,600-6,500 feet.

107. CACYREUS LINGEUS , Cr.

Common along the forest edges and adjacent grass lands.

108. CACYREUS PALEMON , Cr.

Fairly common in the bush and scrub surrounding the forest
patches. The undersides are rather darker than Nairobi material.

109. CUPIDO TELICANUS , Lang.

Very common in the grass lands bordering the forest and at
the “ water drip.”

110. CUPIDO MALATHANA, Boisd.

On the grassy slopes of the northern and central portions of
the range this species was fairly numerous.

111. CUPIDO CISSUS, Godt.

Was undoubtedly the dominant species of the moorlands and
grassly slopes throughout the range. The season for this species
seemed at its height about June.

147

112. CUPIDO IOBATES, Hopff.

Only slightly less numerous than the preceding species and
found in similar surroundings.

113. CUPIDO MALATHANA, Boisd.

Common in grass country.

114. CUPIDO MAHALLAKOAENA, Wallengr.

Of the small species this was by far the commonest and
occurred all along the range in the exposed grassy slopes.

115. CUPIDO KIDONGA , Gr.-Sm.

Very few were noted and taken although on occasions we
searched the grass lands exclusively for Lycaenids (species of
Acacia). Its distribution was undoubtedly governed by its food,
which did not extend high on the range.

116. CUPIDO CRAWSHAYINUS, Auriv.

A common species at altitudes of 4,500-6,000 feet.

117. CUPIDO TROCHYLUS , Freyer.

A few were taken in the grass country, but it was not
common.

118. CUPIDO LOUISAE.

Only one specimen was taken at 6,000 feet in grass lands.

119. CUPIDO GA1KA, Trim. LYSIMON , Hbn.

These little insects were common in the grass country and
amongst the bordering scrub of the forests.

120. AZANUS UBALDUS, Cr., and JESOUS, Guer.

Not numerous, but a few were taken on damp soil at Camp
1, 5,200 feet.

121. LAMPIDES BOETICUS, L.

Extremely common from 4,000-7,000 feet in the grass and
scrub surrounding forests. Larvae were taken from the seed
pods of the wild blue Lupin.

122. HEODES ABOTTI , Holl.

Was found to be very numerous in the grass country and
larvae were taken on Dock.

148

HESPERIIDAE,

123. COELIADES ANCHISES , Gerst.

Was a plentiful species at the lower altitudes but extended
on to the range up to 6,000 feet.

124. COELIDES FORESTAN , Cr.

Very numerous at low altitudes of 3,000 feet and was found
on the range up to 6,000 feet.

124a. COELIDES PISISTRATUS.

Common at the north end of the range.

125. CALAENORRHINUS GALENUS f. BISERIATA , Btlr.

In most of the semi-clearings of the larger forests and in the
more open lesser forests this species was fairly plentiful but diffi-
cult to secure. They are partial to patches of sunlight in the
forest and settle on the undergrowth. I found it best to catch
them in the late afternoon as at that time they were less inclined
to move far. This was the only form noted on the hills at 6,000
feet.

126. EAGRIS SABADIUS ASTORIA , Holl.

A few specimens were taken at the mid altitudes of 5,000 feet,
but it was not noted above this limit, though plentiful in the
forest (mixed) of the lava ridges.

127. ERETIS DIAELAELAE MACULIFERA, Mab.

Was taken along the edges of the forests, but not in any
numbers.

128. ERETIS MELANIA, Mab.

Not very plentiful, but doubtless would have been seen more
often had one hunted for them.

129. SARANGESA PHYDYLE, Walk.

Numerous on the edges of the track through the mixed forest
on the lava ridges but distinctly scarce over 4,500 feet.

130. SARANGESA MOTOZI, Wall.

Not noted on the range proper but many seen at the 3,000
feet level.

131. CARPRONA PILLAANA, Wall.

A species which was noted on the lower plains and did not
extend above 4,000 feet.

149

132. GOMALIA ELMA, Trim.

Was noted along the lower forests in the north and less
numerous at the south. Its range appeared to be about 6,500,
controlled by the distribution of its food plant.

133. SP1AL1A SPIO, L.

This was the most numerous species of the group and
occurred in the grass lands and along forest margins. Larvae
were taken on Sida.

134. SPIALIA HIGGINSI, Evans.

Fairly evenly distributed along the range up to 5,600 feet and
certainly more numerous below this level.

135. SPIALIA CONFUSA OBSCURA, Higgins.

Not very plentiful and apt to be overlooked as it is one of
the smaller species of the group.

136. METISELLA QUADRISIGNATA NANDA , Evans.

Was very numerous along the entire range in the borders of
forest up to 6,500 feet.

137. KEDESTES ROGERSI , Druce.

Only a few seen, mostly in low ground at 4,500 feet. It
appears to favour areas which, during the rains, became water-
logged.

137a. KEDESTES CALLICLES, Hew.

One specimen was taken at the foot hills.

138. KEDESTES NERVA , Fab.

This interesting insect was noted at 5,000 feet. The specimen
has been identified by General Evans as above. It is the first
Kenya record of this South African species. It is possible, that
when more material is available, some difference between Kenya
and South African examples may be detected.

139. PAROSOMODES MORANTII, Trim.

A few were noted in the low ground between 3,000 and 4,500

feet.

140. ACLEROS MACKENU, Trim.

Very common in the more open forests frequenting the
undergrowth of Acanthaceae.

150

141. ZENON1A ZENO , Trim.

Very abundant in the grass lands and in the forests where
certain grasses were growing and on which the larva feed.

142. BAORIS FATUELLUS , Hopff.

Fairly numerous in the grass and bush along the forest
margins. 4,500-6,000 feet.

143. PELOP1DAS DETECTA, Trim.

Very numerous throughout the range and found up to 6,500

feet.

144. PELOP1DAS BORBONICA, Boisdv.

Plentiful, but not as numerous as the last species.

145. GEGENES LETTERSTEDTI BREVICORNIS , Plotz.

This was by far the commonest Skipper throughout the range
and was found from 3,000 up to 6,500 feet in the grass lands
particularly. Males and females were equally numerous.

151

ON TWO NEW RACES OF C1CINDELINAE FROM KENYA
COLONY AND NOTES ON OTHERS.

By Dr. Walther Horn, Berlin-Dahlem.

1. Dromica (Myrmecoptera) M audit, Bates; albo-costata, W. Horn

(nov. subsp.).

Differt a Dr. Mauchi Bates statura major e, 5 elytrorum costis
( aut solummodo postice aut etiam plus minusve antice) flavo-
tinctis, stria marginali postica antice dilatata et cum costa adja-
cent e flavo-tincta confluente. Long 19-23 mm. ( sine labro
spinaque ).

1 6 9, Kitui, collected by R. Toker (Coryndon Museum and
my collection).

The new race shows the ribs of the elytra quite a little short-
ened behind as is generally the case in the southern form of this
species (“ forma prioritatis,” Mauchi, Bates). The northern form
(race purpurascens, Bates) has the ribs generally stronger and a
little longer developed towards the apex. The yellow coloura-
tion of the ribs (especially the posterior part) and the enlarged
anterior part of the posterior marginal stripes of the elytra are
very remarkable: it corresponds to that which I have called
“ Dispersions-Komponente ” : that means, that everywhere on the
elytra an “ extraordinary ” yellow coloration can appear, prefer-
ring those points which show from the standpoint of the sculp-
ture, etc., any “ specialisation.” In our case this specialisation is
given by the ribs, in other cases it can be given by any sutural
fovoelae (e.g. in variations of Dr. ( Myrmecoptera ), Schaumi, etc.

2. Cfcindefa brevicoHis pseudo-distans, W. Horn (nov. subsp.)

Cic. brevicollis subsp. vivida, Boh., affinis, differt elytrorum

macula basali perparva; maculis 2 suturalibus anterioribus nullis,
signatura tota cetera magis tenui, stria marginali flava (iterum
magis tenui) semper post lunulam humeralem (posticem versus
minus oblique directam) interrupta: in subsp. vivida, Boh. hac
stria aut et ante et post lunulam medialem aut solummodo ante
lunulam apicalem interrupta). Long 10^ -12 mm. ( sine labro
spinaque ).

3 9 9 Id, Lake Magadi, collected in March, 1938, by van
Someren (two specimens in the Coryndon Museum, two others
in my collection).

This new race shows a strange mixture of an irregular reduc-
tion of the pattern, as one part of it has become narrower (the

152

basal spot) or is even quite missing (the two anterior sutural
spots), although the middle fascia shows always its full length.
The small yellow marginal line is interrupted behind the humeral
lunula. The coloration of the upperside is blackish or dirty dull
aeneous. The orbital plates show the rough sculpture of subsp.
vivida , Boh., and neglecta, Dej. The intercoxal parts of the pro-
and mesosternum are without bristles.

By the pattern of the elytra this new race is slightly remini-
scent of the Russian Cicindela atrata distans, Fisch.

3. Cicindela albogiittaia, Klug.

1 d 9 of this species were collected at Northern Lake Baringo
in Kenya Colony at an elevation of 2,500 feet in January, 1938, by
D. Mclnnes. The upperside of the specimens is dark bluish.
Until now this species was only known in Africa from Erytrea
and Abyssinia extending to the “ old ” Italian Somaliland. In
Asia it occurs in S.W. Arabia and at the borders of the Red Sea.

4. Cicindela fastidiosa Jordaniana, W. Horn.

1 9 of this race from Mutha and 1 d from Maktau both
collected by MacArthur (the 9 in December, 1937, the 6 in
December, 1938) show the marginal spot near the middle of the
length of the elytra very much enlarged (in the form of an irregu-
lar triangle, tapering towards the disc of the elytra). The 9
agrees in the other characters with the ordinary form but in the
6 the whole pattern of the elytra shows a yellow-orange colour
and the spot between the discoidal one behind the middle of the
length of the elytra (the “ endpoint ” of the non-existing middle
fascia) and the anterior end of the apical marginal stripe is
represented by a pretty long almost vertical line.

153

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Ot)£ "Journal

OF THE

East Africa and Uganda
Natural History Society

June, 1939.

Vol. XIV.

No. 3 (64)

CONTENTS

Editorial

Coryndon Museum Expedition to the Chyulu Hills.
Part IV. Notes on the Herpetofauna of the Chyulu
Hills. (Illustrated.) By V, G. L. van Someren,
F.L.S., etc.

Coryndon Museum Expedition to the Chyulu Hills.
Part V. (Illustrated) Some Vegetational &
Botanical Notes. By P. R. O. Bally (Botanist,
Coryndon Museum)

Some Kinangop Sunbirds. By Sir Charles F, Belcher,
M.B.O.U., etc

New and little-known Lepidoptera from Kenya and
Uganda. (Illustrated) By V. G. L. van Someren,
F.R.E.S., etc.

A Bat Nursery. By T. H. E. Jackson, F.R.E.S.
Twenty-eighth Annual Report, 1938. Botanical Report.
Balance Sheet & Financial Statement

Additional copies to members, Shs. 5/-; non-members,

155

155—160

161—166

167—171

172—180

180

181—192

Editor :

G. R. C. van Someren.

Date of Publication: June, 1939.

PRINTED BY THE EAST AFRICAN STANDARD LTD.

East Africa & Uganda Natural History Society.

patrons:

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Ot)£ Journal

OF THE

East Africa and Uganda
Natural History Society

June, 1939. Vol. XIV. No. 3 (64)

CONTENTS

Editorial ... ... ... 155

Coryndon Museum Expedition to the Chyulu Hills.

Part IV. Notes on the Herpetofauna of the Chyulu
Hills. (Illustrated.) By V. G. L. van Someren,

F.L.S., etc ... ... 155—160

Coryndon Museum Expedition to the Chyulu Hills.

Part V. (Illustrated) Some Vegetational &

Botanical Notes. By P. R. O. Bally (Botanist,

Coryndon Museum) 161 — 166

Some Kinangop Sunbirds. By Sir Charles F. Belcher,

M.B.O.U., etc 167—171

New and little-known Lepidoptera from Kenya and
Uganda. (Illustrated) By V. G. L. van Someren,

F.R.E.S., etc. 172—180

A Bat Nursery. By T. H. E. Jackson, F.R.E.S. ... 180

Twenty-eighth Annual Report, 1938. Botanical Report.

Balance Sheet & Financial Statement ... ... 181 — 192

Editor :

G. R. C. van Someren.

Date of Publication : June, 1939.

Additional copies to members, Shs. 5/-; non-members, Shs. 10/“.

PRINTED BY THE EAST AFRICAN STANDARD LTD.

EDITORIAL.

The Publication Sub-Committee has pleasure in submitting
with this number, the series of folding panoramas which owing
to unavoidable delay, were omitted from the first part of this
volume, and which illustrate the General Narrative of the
Coryndon Museum Expedition to the Chyulu Hills.

The Society is negotiating with the Museum Authorities with
a view to securing recognition of the Society’s Journal as the
official organ of the Museum. It is hoped that contributions
from the Museum staff will thus be assured. We take this oppor-
tunity of once again inviting members to submit original papers,
notes, and general observations, dealing with the Natural History
of Eastern Africa, for publication in the Journal.

The concluding part (No. 4) of this volume will be issued
towards the end of July.

Editor.

CORYNDON MUSEUM EXPEDITION TO THE CHYULU

HILLS.

Part IV.

NOTES ON THE HERPETOFAUNA OF THE CHYULU HILLS.

By V. G. L. VAN SOMEREN. F.L.S., C.M.Z.S., Etc.
Introduction.

As part of the ecological survey of the Chyulu Hills, atten-
tion was paid to reptiles and amphibia. The results of con-
tinuous search were on the whole very disappointing, and such
material as was collected, although representative of the particu-
lar season, probably does not give a true index of the Herpeto-
fauna of the hills. The paucity of material may be due partly
to the fact that we were unable to detail searchers for this
specific work during the whole time we were on the range.

All the reptiles and amphibia belong to the savanna or
coastal-belt fauna, with the exception of Lacerta jacksoni and
Chamaeleo fischeri tavetensis, both of which occur at higher
altitudes such as Mts. Mbololo and Kilimanjaro, as forest species.

I am indebted to Mr. A. Loveridge for the determination of
the material during his recent brief visit to Nairobi.

AU8 *

155

SYSTEMATIC LIST.

Snakes.

PROSYMNA AMBIGUA STUHLMANI, Pfepfer.

A single specimen was taken in the grass lands on the
western slope of the hills below Camp 2 at 5,500 feet. Total
length 226 mm.

DASYPELTIS SCABER (L.).

Not met with on the high ground of the range; the specimen
obtained was procured in a deserted banana shamba at 4,200
feet. Total length 670 mm.

TRIMERORHINUS TRITAENIATUS MULTISQUAMIS,
Loveridge.

A few examples of this lined grass snake were noted, but
owing to the long nature of the grass they were able to slip
away. The specimen captured was taken at 5,500 feet at Camp
2. Total length 648 mm.

PSAMMOPHIS SIBILANS (L.).

This species was fairly plentiful, but usually evaded capture.
One noted them basking on the springy grass tufts, but they
were on the alert all the time. There was some considerable
variation in colour; one specimen was of an olive green, others
blackish. The spotted throat and elongate head are distinctive
features. Of the two specimens captured, one measures 775 mm.,
the other 710 mm.

CAUSUS RHOMBEATUS (Licht.).

This little adder was scarce; only one was noted during the
three months. It was taken at 5,000 feet near the water drip.
A very small specimen, 188 mm.

BITIS ARIETANS (Merrem).

A single specimen of the common Puff Adder, in the yellow
phase, was taken at Camp 3 at 6,000 feet. The specimen was
shot and was too damaged to preserve. It contained a full-grown
specimen of Rattus concha ssp. Another specimen was noted
near the boys’ latrine.

PYTHON SEBAE (Gmelin). PL A, fig. 1.

An immature specimen of some 4| feet was found coiled up
on a tuft of grass at Camp 3, basking in the hot sun. No diffi-
culty was experienced in capturing it as it was evidently about
to slough its skin and the eyes were nearly opaque. It was kept
alive for a few weeks but failed to shed its skin successfully.

156

PLATE A. Fig. 1. PLATE A. Fig 2.

Python sehae (Gmelin.) immature. Chamaesaura tenuior, Gunth.

(Photo: Bally.) (Photo: Bally.)

NAJA NIGRICOLLIS , Reinh.

An immature specimen of 800 mm. was shot at Camp 1, at
5,000 feet. It was of the olive-brown variety.

Lizards.

AGAMA AGAMA LIONOTUS, Boulg.

Agama Lizards were noted at one place on the range proper;
on the western aspect at 4,800 ft. in one of the few localities where
there was any form of cliff face to the lava terraces, at Camp 1.
They were, however, very plentiful on the eastern foot-hills in
the old abandoned banana shambas, particularly where the lava
flows showed considerable extrusion and where there were
water- worn gullies. They were also as commonly found on the
trunks of the giant fig trees.

Most of the specimens taken, some 17 in number, are very
immature. The smallest is 85 mm., the largest 258 mm.

In the Kibwezi area the species was plentiful, many of them
being in brilliant blue and red colouration, whereas the Chyulu
specimens are a mottled brownish. The immature specimens
are more patterned than the adults.

CHAMAESAURA TENUIOR , Gunth. PI. A, fig. 2.

Twenty-seven specimens of this species were captured and
dozens more were noted. It was indeed one of the commonest
skinks of the range. It was noted in the moorland grass lands
from 5,000 feet to 7,000 feet. One saw them lying along the
tops of the grass tufts, and if undisturbed one could approach
to within a foot or so before they wriggled off into the deeper
grass or slid down on to the ground. It was very easy to sweep
them up with a butterfly net. The whole series is very uniform
in type of colouration; all have monodactyle hind limbs.

I have already recorded the taking of these skinks by
Gymnogenys ty picas in my report on the birds.

The Wakamba natives were loath to capture these lizards,
because of their snake-like appearance, whereas they would
catch Mabuya striata without hesitation.

On more than one occasion I noted these skinks to capture
flies and moths. Specimens kept alive would take nymphal
grasshoppers. The largest specimen measures 560 mm.

LACERTA JACKSONI, Boulgr.

Three specimens of this species were captured but many
more were noted. They were seen on the trunks of trees grow-
ing at the edges of the forest. They were more numerous at
the north and central portions of the range. They were difficult
to secure except by shooting them with half dust cartridges.

157

The largest specimen measures 170 mm. The name kibonotensis
applied to specimens from Kilimanjaro is now placed in the
synonymy of jacksoni. Altitude range 5,000-6,500 feet. The
greenish colouration of the fore-part, and the chrome yellow of
the vent and hind limbs below are conspicuous field characters.

MABUYA MEGALURA (Peters).

This brown, Striped Skink was without doubt the common-
est species on the hills, inhabiting the grass lands of all types.
Thus we noted it as common on the slopes where the grass was
short and tufty; on the moorlands with taller grass up to three
and four feet, and on the wind-swept slopes where the grass was
short and dense. There was never much difficulty in capturing
them for they seldom disappeared far into a tuft of grass and if
this was pressed down promptly and gradually opened up one
could secure them without damage. There is some considerable
variation in colour; thus some are uniform brownish above,
while others are boldly striped. The size variation is great, the
largest measures 260 mm. These skinks take kindly to captivity
and several were kept in good condition by feeding with flies.

Thirty-four specimens were captured.

MABUYA sp.

This species was not uncommon, but much more retiring in
habits, and thus more difficult of capture. Mr. Loveridge was
unable to determine the species, and there is every possibility
that it represents a new species. It is of a much more slender,
more graceful build than megalura, and though bearing a super-
ficial resemblance to that species on the upper surface, is
characterised, so far as colour goes, by its bright pink fore and
hind legs, whilst many examples are brilliantly pink below along
the lateral-abdominal line and on the underside of the tail. In
the immature, up to about 80 mm. in length, the entire tail is
red.

The altitudinal range of the species, so far as we noted it,
was from 4,500 feet, amongst the fallen banana leaves of the
plantations, to 6,500 feet on the range proper, in the grass lands.
It was more plentiful in the north and central portions of the
range than at the south.

MABUYU STRIATA (Peters).

These Lined Skinks were almost invariably to be found on
the trunks of the rough-barked Erythrina, usually those with a
portion of the trunk decayed or eaten out by termites, or on those
with a heavy covering of orchids, amongst the roots of which
these lizards retired when disturbed. Although comparatively

158

bold, they appreciated the danger of capture, and if more than
one attempt had been made at securing them, they sought the
shelter of a crevice or hollow as soon as one came near the tree.
One exceptionally fine pair evaded capture for days and
eventually adopted the trick of dropping to the ground as soon
as a “ boy ” was sent up the tree to secure them from a broken
branch. Both were eventually secured by digging them out of
a rat’s hole into which they had disappeared on reaching ground.

The largest Chyulu specimen measures 235 mm. They
occurred at altitudes about 4,000-6,800 feet.

RIOPA SUNDEVALLU, A. Smith.

Only one specimen of this skink was obtained at 5,000 feet
at Camp 1.

ABLEPHARUS WAHLBERG1I , A. Smith.

One immature specimen, identified as this species, was the
only one noted.

CHAMAELEO DILEPIS RQPERI, Boulgr.

This handsome species was scarce on the range above 5,000 ft.
but several specimens were noted and a few taken on the lower
lava flows at the 3,500-4,000 feet levels. The variation in colour
is enormous : many of the most spectacular are orange with very
marked black spots; others again are terracotta pink. The
largest males are dwarfs compared to females, the biggest of
which measures 265 mm. It was most plentiful on the Noka-
Italweni track.

CHAMAELEO BITAENIATUS BITAENIATUS , Fischer.

This species was numerous on the range and indeed can be
considered as a montane species. Of the twelve specimens taken
only one was secured on the lower ground at 4,000 feet, the
remainder were from the 5-6,000 feet level. It was invariably
found in the grass land and for the most part the specimens were
either buffy or straw-colour with longitudinal paler stripes.

CHAMAELEO FISCHERI TAVETENSIS, Steind.

By no means a common species, and not obtained on the
range proper, though specimens were noted and obtained on the
lower ground at 4,000 feet. It was also noted at Kibwezi. The
flattened parallel horns of this species are distinctive.

Amphibia.

BUFO REGULAR1S REGULARIS, Reuss.

In view of the extreme scarcity of water on the range, it is
not surprising that amphibia were poorly represented. Three

159

examples of this species were taken. One was discovered in a
disused rat hole; the other came into the banda after a rain
storm, whilst the third was found amongst the grass land.

CHIROMANTIS XEKAMPEL1NA, Peters.

This very pale species of Tree Frog was scarce; only one
specimen was obtained near the Ithaba swamp at 3,000 feet, thus
not actually on the range.

RAN A OXYRHYNCHUS ? sub-sp.

Twenty-five examples of this frog were preserved. It is
placed with a query for the entire series suggests that Chyulu
material runs considerably smaller than typical. Mr. Loveridge
has promised to examine the specimens in detail on his return to
America. The “ pickled ” material does not in any way demon-
strate the remarkable variation exhibited by the Chyulu speci-
mens in life; a variation which could not be put down to sex.
Excellent coloured casts of some of the varieties were prepared
by Mr. Allen Turner and are on exhibition in the Museum.

Though very scarce at Camp 1 at the north end (where the
only free surface water occurred), the species was more
numerous in the central portion of the range, and was common
at Camp 3, of the south, at 6,000-6,500 feet. In this last position,
numbers were to be found in the damp rank grass along the
forest edge, and it is more than probable that they breed in the
numerous hollow tree trunks which hold water for a sufficient
time. One could count on finding the species under the logs of
timber which the porters collected and threw down by the cook-
house. It is unlikely that the frogs desired the warmth: the
probability is that they frequented the locality to obtain the
numerous flying ants and other insects which were driven out
of the timber when put on the fire.

I obtained quite a number from under the ground-sheet of
my tent.

PHRYNOBATRACHUS NATALENS1S, Smith.

A few examples of this species were secured from the open
grass lands at Camp 2, and were not associated with surface
water.

160

CORYNDON MUSEUM EXPEDITION TO THE CHYULU

HILLS.

Part V.

SOME VEGETATIONAL AND BOTANICAL NOTES.

By Peter R. O. Bally, Botanist, Coryndon Memorial Museum.

The Chyulu Hills were selected for the 1938 Expedition of
the Coryndon Memorial Museum for several reasons:

(a) The range was practically unknown in every respect:
as far as available records show, only one very superficial survey
had been made of them during the Great War with a view to
finding water, but geologically, botanically, and faunistically
the Chyulu Hills were an unknown quantity .

(b) Human influence on the range is practically negligible,
as it is quite uninhabited. Formerly a series of small cultiva-
tions worked by Wakamba squatters existed along the eastern
foot hills, but these are now derelict, as the occupants have long
since been returned to their reserve. The area is now Crown
Land. There are two native paths across the hills, connecting
Kibwezi with Loitokitok, but these are very rarely used. The
destructive grass fires of the plains do not seem to reach the
forest zones; possibly they spend themselves on the steep hill-
sides. Only in the vicinity of one of the native paths through
the hills a few burnt patches, and one burnt cedar forest, were
found.

(c) Their geographical position pointed to the Chyulu Hills
as an interesting link for floral distribution — they are almost
equidistant from Mt. Kilimanjaro, the Teita Hills, and from the
Highlands of Machakos, rising in isolation from the vast
surrounding plains.

The Chyulus are about 40 miles in length and 10 miles in
width, and they rise abruptly from the 4,000 feet contour to
about 5,600 feet in the north and 7,200 feet in the south. A
range of such size might well have evolved a vegetation of its
own, or it might — through its isolated situation — have retained
floral relics which have disappeared elsewhere.

However, the first observation which was made — and which
was later fully corroborated by soil analysis — was that the
Chyulu Hills are of very recent origin; in fact, probably no more
than a thousand years ago they were the scene of intense
volcanic activity. No signs of such are now apparent, but the
rugged lava flows and volcanic clinker seem as fresh as if they
had hardly cooled down, and there is little evidence of weather-
ing having set in to dull the shimmering oxide colours on the
surface of the hardened magma.

161

The general aspect of the Chyulu Hills is that of numerous
contiguous cones and extinct craters of varying size, forming a
main ridge, which extends throughout the whole length, flanked
on either side by rows of subsidiary cones. Several of the
valleys are filled with lava flows, and lava is exposed on many
of the crater rims, whereas the slopes of the cones consist mainly
of lapelli.

Without considering the numerous geological indications of
the very recent origin of the Chyulu range, there are many
obvious signs which show that its vegetation has not yet reached
its optimal development, with the exception of that on its
southern portion, where between 6,500 feet and 7,200 feet a great
mist forest with a canopy a hundred to a hundred and fifty feet
high and with trunks of very considerable girth has established
itself.

This forest certainly gives at first the impression of great
age, but a closer inspection shows that its humus accumulation
is still very small, and the subsoil of lapelli is very near the
surface.

The almost complete lack of humus — only in the forested
bottoms of some of the craters has it accumulated to some depth
— and the great permeability of the subsoil, which even after
heavy showers left no standing water, explains the absence of
any superficial water-course or even springs throughout the
range.

Under these conditions the soil can be largely discounted as
a reservoir to supply abundant water for plant life, with the
exception perhaps of certain crater bottoms formed of solid lava.
In fact, the only place where water was obtained during the
Expedition was where a hidden stratum of lava reached the
surface in a deeply eroded gully. Here a constant drip of water
(fig. 1) yielded about 60 gallons per day, a quantity that declined
appreciably towards the beginning of July, as the dry season
went on.

The state of disintegration of the lava would seem to indi-
cate a greater age for the northern portion of the range — but
the character of the forest there is less advanced than elsewhere.

On this apparent incongruity the meteorological data ob-
tained during the course of our residence on the hills might have
some bearing; weather conditions vary greatly in various alti-
tudes, and the northern portion with an altitude of only 5,400
feet to 5,600 feet is subjected to climatic conditions which differ
materially from those in the south between 6,000 feet and 7,200
feet. A possible difference in actual rainfall along the range
could hardly be held alone responsible for the obvious retarda-
tion in tree growth in the north, nor could the luxuriant affores-

162

tation in the south be easily explained on a soil of such complete
permeability.

During the three months of our Expedition the meteorologi-
cal influences to which the various portions of the range are
exposed were closely studied in every camp and they were found
to be thus:

The prevailing wind during the period of observation was
from a south-westerly direction, blowing straight from the massif
of Kilimanjaro, which towers at a distance of 48 miles. While
the rains lasted, i.e. to the end of May, conditions may have
been fairly uniform along the whole length of the range, soil
and atmosphere being charged with moisture to utmost capacity,
although the southern portion with its higher altitude had a
larger share of mists towards the end of the wet season.

In the early part of the dry season, however, the morning
mists rose from the plains straight to an altitude of about 6,000
feet and were then driven towards the range by the wind; thus,
only the southern heights benefited from their moisture, while
the northern portion remained dry.

A marked difference was also noted between east and west
slopes.

The western slope, which is first hit by the mist-laden
wind, remained dripping wet throughout the day, even in the
dry month of July, while no trace of the nightly mists remained
visible after the noon hour on the slopes facing east.

It goes without saying that the capacity for absorbing
moisture is intensified incalculably in forest land as compared
with grassland, and thus the amount of water supply is greatly
intensified in the southern end of the Chyulu Hills with its vast
tracts of growing forest.

One remarkable feature in tree growth in the northern
portion is the distribution of pencil cedar ( Juniperus procera,
Hochst). Pure stands of cedar were found quite commonly all
over the western slopes and on lava flows in the west, while
only a few stray trees could be seen on the slopes facing east.
Possibly this phenomenon finds its explanation in the greater
moisture of the air on the western slopes. (Fig. II, Panorama A,
photo 5.)

In contrast, the vegetation on the numerous blow-holes and
vents at the base of the southern portion of the Chyulus is
strikingly xerophytic: they are crowned with a fringe of tree
Euphorbia and Cussonia; Aloe and Kalanchoe grow between their
rocks. Catha edulis and Myrica kilimandscharica are commonly
associated with them (fig. III).

It is premature to give a detailed record of the flora of the
Chyulu Hills; over 1,300 specimens were collected, and it will

163

take considerable time before an exhaustive description of this
material can follow.

Furthermore, the time of collection of botanical specimens
covers a period of no more than three months, and a comprehen-
sive study could be based only on collections made during all
seasons of the year.

A rough outline description of the vegetation, showing some
of its most striking representatives, has been given in Dr. G. L.
van Someren’s general narrative on the Chyulu Expedition in
the previous number of this Journal.

It was, however, possible to study one vegetational problem,
rare in Africa to-day, but very obvious along the heights of the
Chyulu Hills : the evolution of large mist forests, which are still
extending steadily, from their initial struggling beginnings on
bare, windswept, grassland.

In the northern and in the central portion of the Chyulus,
Erythrina tomentosa is commonly the first tree to form a nucleus
of more highly organized vegetation in the surrounding grass-
land (fig. IV). In its shelter, herbaceous plants which require
shade soon begin to form a dense patch. Erlang ea tomentosa
and Bidens seretii with its large yellow flowers are the first of
the sturdier herbs to establish themselves in closed communities,
although the latter is also found dispersed in the open grassland.
Leonotis mollissima and Cluythia mollis are frequently found
with them. In this herbaceous thicket, a more shade loving
vegetation with Balsams, Geranium, and Viola abyssinica, etc.,
appear. Gradually the thickets merge with those that have
developed around neighbouring Erythrinas. Cussonia Holstii,
is the next tree to join these communities, and now the variety
of trees and shrubs increases rapidly. Ilex, Teclea, Rhus,
Brucea, Oxyanthus, etc., soon form a dense forest patch, its
shaded floor covered with Piper capense, Desmodium scalpe, and
several shade-loving Acanthaceae.

Other centres for commencing afforestation are the crater
dips with their natural shelter from the drying effect of wind
and sun, and with their greater accumulation of moisture.

Once the forest has filled the sheltered dips, it pushes its
herbaceous edge further and further down the outward slopes;
the trees follow. This stage is reached in the northern portion,
where the forests still form numerous separate patches in the
grassland, which is itself dotted with small groves and single
Erythrinas. (Fig. V and Panorama A2.)

A more advanced stage of afforestation is seen in the slightly
higher central section of the range; here, the forest patches are
larger and more connected; they have begun to merge, some-
times leaving only narrow alleys of grassland between them

164

Fig. I a constant drip of water ....

Fig. II pure stands of Juniperus procera . . . .

(See Panorama A., No. 5.)

Fig. III. Crowned with a fringe of Euphorbia trees.

Fig. IV. Erythrina tomentosa is commonly the first tree. . . .

Fig. V. The forests form numerous separate patches.

Fig. VI leaving narrow lanes of grassland.

Fig. VII. Small enclosed areas of grassland.

Fig. VIII. In the southern portion the forest is continuous,
(See Panorama, C. 5.)

Fig. IX. Remains of the original grassland were found in its midst. . .

Fig. X. One of these small forest patches. . . .

(fig. VI) or coalescing on all sides, eventually leaving only a
small enclosed area of grassland (fig. VII).

The number of species forming the forest is much increased
here, and more wet forest types are encountered.

On the heights of the southern portion the forest is con-
tinuous, and no trace of its original beginnings can be seen (fig.
VIII ^ee Panorama C 5). The main block of forest spreads over an
estimated area of over 20 square miles; two patches only (fig.

IX) of the original grassland were found in its midst, and these
will also disapear with the obvious advance of the forest from
every side.

In the South, the variety of trees, shrubs, climbers, and herbs
is greatest, while the grassland around does not differ materially
from that found on other parts of the range. The forest line
has extended far down the western slope, and it is encroaching
visibly, but more slowly, on the less favoured grassland facing
east. Near the forest line, small patches of trees have formed,
mostly representatives from the large forest, for in this altitude
Erythrina tomentosa is less common.

A careful analysis of one of these small forest patches (fig.

X) measuring 43 paces in circumference was made. In it, sixty-

odd species of flowering plants were collected and named; they
show the great variety of plant life found in the Chyulu Hills, and
they also go to show from which sources this recent and isolated
range has drawn its vegetation: the flora of Kilimanjaro is

represented, as well as that of the Teita Hills and that of the
highlands of Machakos.

List of Plants Collected in Forest Patch, Southern Chyulu

Hills, June, 1938.

In grassland , up to 20 paces around patch:

Silene Burchelli, Otth.

Cassia Kirkii, Oliv.

Eriosema Lejeunii, Staner et
De Craine.

Rhus villosa, L.

Agauria salicifolia, Hook, f.
Galinum molucomum, Bullock.
Scabiosa columbaria, L.

Bidens palustris, Sharff.

Helichrysum gerberaefolium,
Sch. Bip.

Lightfootia abyssinica, Hochst.
Hebenstreitia dentata, L.
Sopubia Welwitschii, Engl.
Gladiolus quartinianus, A. Rich,
Themeda triandra, Forsk., var.

hispida, Stapf.

Asplenium anisophyllum,
Hochst.

165

In herbaceous edge:
Thalictrum rhynchocarpum,
Dill, et Rich.

Berberis Holstii, Engl.
Geranium simense, Hochst.
Impatiens papilionacea, Warb.
Cluythia mollis, Pax.
Euphorbia longecornuta, Pax.
Phyllanthus capillaris, Sch.
et Thomm.

Rubus inedulis, Rolfe.
Aescynomene abyssinica,
Taub. ex Engl.

Catha edulis, Forsk.

Rhamnus prionides, L’Herit.

Agauria salicifolia, Hook, f.
Myrsine africana, L.
Oldenlandia Johnstonii, Oliv.
Pent as longiflora, Oliv.

Bidens Seretii, Scherff.
Carduss Steudnerii (Engl.),

R. E. Fries.

Erlangea tomentosa, S. Moore.
Micromeria biflora, Benth.
Salvia nilotica, Vahl.
Commelina sp.

Eragrostis chalcantha, Trin.
Exotheca abyssinica, Anders.
Pteridium aquilinum, Kuhn.

Inside j orest patch:

Trees —

Xymalos monaspora, Baill. Rapanea neurophylla (Gilg.),
Ilex mitis (L.), Radik. Mez.

Schefflera abyssinica Vangueria linearisepala,
(Hochst.), Harms. K. Schum.

Olea Hochstetteri, Baker. Halleria lucida, Linn.

Shrubs —

Acalypha ornata, Hochst. Allophylus repandens, Bak.
Gymnosporia sp.

Climbers —

Taccazzea sp.? Senecio syringifolius, O. Hoffm.

Epiphytes —

Perperomia reflexa, Dietr. Polystachya golungensis.
Kalanchoe Petitiana, Polystachya cultriformis
A. Rich. (Thou.), Lindl.

Pilea ceratormera, Wedd. Asplenium theciferum, Met.
Aerangis Thomsonii, var. concinnum, Schrad.

Schltr. Polypodium lanceolatum, L.

Herbaceous plants —

Piper capense, L.f. Echinochloa sp.?

Desmodium scalpe, D.C. Calanthe Volkensii, Rolfe.
Anthriscus sp. Asplenium praemorsum, Sw.

Pycnostachys deflexifolia,

Bak.

I am greatly indebted to P. J. Green way, Esq., systematic
botanist of the East African Agricultural Research Station,
AMANI, Tanganyika Territory, for his courtesy in identifying
those plants appearing in the above list, which could not be
matched in the herbarium of the Coryndon Memorial Museum.

166

SOME KINANGOP SUNBIRDS.

By Sir Charles F. Belcher.

Four species of Sunbird commonly occur in the valley of the
Chania at South Kinangop. These are Nectarinia famosa aenei -
gularis, Sharpe, the Kenya Malachite Sunbird; Nectarinia
tacazze (Stanley), the Tacazze Sunbird; Drepanorhynchus reiche -
nowi, Fischer, the Golden-winged Sunbird; and Cinnyris medio -
cris mediocris, Shelley, the Kenya Double-collared Sunbird.
The association of these four species was observed long ago by
Sir Frederick Jackson ( vide what is unquestionably an original
note of his in the recently-published “ Birds of Kenya and
Uganda,” edited by W. L. Sclater, at page 1342 in the third
volume). So far, during a residence of nearly twelve months on
the Kinangop, I have not met with the Bronzy Sunbird ( N . kili-
mensis kilimensis , Shelley) which might be expected to occur
and has been taken as near as Limoru at an altitude not more
than 1,500 feet below us, but which I think must be regarded as
definitely a bird of, in these parts at least, lower altitudes than
the Kinangop Plateau; and another species not yet noted is the
Scarlet-tufted Malachite Sunbird ( Nectarinia johnstoni johnstoni ,
Shelley) which though quoted by Sclater as occurring on Kilima-
njaro and Kenya Mountains only, certainly is found as well on
the higher parts of the Aberdares; and, as I am informed by Dr.
van Someren, has once been noted on Major Ward’s estate which
is at much the same level as the main run of the Kinangop close
in to the mountain, i.e. about 8,500 feet above the sea. It would
doubtless be an occasional visitor only from the higher levels.

Field identification of the four commoner birds is easy
enough, in both sexes. Drepanorhynchus is marked out from
the other three by the bright yellow wing-bar which both male
and female have. I believe there is a song which at times the
male produces, but the note commonly heard from both sexes is
a harsh “ sawing ” one. The male of N. famosa has yellow
pectoral tufts, and the female has traces of them too; but con-
spicuous as are these tufts in the hand, or when one has to do
with a skin, I have never yet been able to make them out in the
living bird. What is a certain mark is the general bluish colour
of the male below the chest, and in the female the tint of yellow
on the underparts, not flammulated with grey feather-centres as
is the brighter yellow-breasted N . kilimensis female, supposing
that to be here a possibility. It is remarkable that Sclater does
not mention the blue in the plumage of the male. The female
is smaller than that of N. tacazze and is without any light super-
ciliary stripe. The male famosa has a song in three sections, be-
ginning with a few sharp chirps, then quickening into shorter ones,

167

and ending with a confused warble, a sort of “cheedle-eedle.” N.
tacazze male must be rather difficult to tell on a brief glance from
the same sex in N. kilimensis, but where the latter bird does not
occur there is really nothing to confuse with it, it being the only
long-tailed Sunbird up here without obvious blue in the plumage,
and also without the yellow wing-bar of Drepanorhynchus .
Jackson (p. 1319 of the work above-mentioned) once saw a full-
plumaged male tacazze in a Nairobi garden and says that it was
quite unmistakable alongside a pair of N. kilimensis; there is a
gloss of violet or violet-lilac on the breast, shoulders, and upper
tail coverts of N. tacazze which is not found in N. kilimensis and
this may always be visible to good sight as the bird moves about.
In the skin it appears only in certain lights, the same feathers
having otherwise the bronze iridescence which characterises the
plumage generally, except on the abdomen and wings, which are
dull black. So far, I have not traced any song to the male of
N. tacazze , only a series of chirps; but most likely it does sing
occasionally, like the greater number of Sunbird species.

Both male and female of Cinnyris mediocris have the short
tails which are characteristic of that genus, so that they cannot
be mixed up in the field with any of the “ long-tails ” as regards
the male, and the smaller size and shorter bill renders it unlikely
that one would confuse the female with that of any of the three
other larger species. In the male the scarlet breast-patch, and
the yellow pectoral tufts, are readily observable in the field;
though the tufts are not constantly in evidence, they are shown
at times, not concealed as in N. famosa. The male has a very
pleasant little warbling strain.

There are some differences in habitat which should be
noted. N. famosa stands apart from the rest in that it is a bird
of the open, loving patches of Hypericums, nettles, and Leonotis
out on the grassy plains as well as flower-gardens and the river-
side scrub which it occasionally visits. The nettles and Leonotis
are usually met with on or about the sites of the manyattas of
departed Masai, and in these places when there is a good supply
of flowers famosa is extraordinarily plentiful; in October you
may see a dozen males round one small clump of tall nettles with
the Sasumwa (Hypericum) trees growing above them. But I
have never yet seen any other kind of Sunbird in such places.
I am aware how dangerous generalisations are when one is say-
ing anything about birds, and I daresay if I had watched longer
I should have seen some if not all of the other three. Mean-
while one can but say what one finds. I have come across a good
many nests of N. famosa, and they have all been built in low
bushes or at least within hand reach, and all well away from
the immediate valley of the river Chania. N. tacazze, D.

168

reichenowi, and C. mediocris are all birds of the riverside trees
and scrub. Mediocris may tend to go a little farther away from
the stream at times than the other two, and I should say it was
numerically the most plentiful. It is usually in pairs. I am
told by people who have extensive gardens that Drepanorhyn -
chus is far more shy, and less often seen close about the house,
than the others. On the other hand in the valley of the stream
it is more conspicuous than the rest, and I should say easily
outnumbered N. tacazze.

With all four species, nesting seems to take place at almost
any time between mid-May and the end of the year, that is to
say at any time except during the dry season of the first three
or four months. But it is not so much one continuous season as
two, linked by casual nesting; or perhaps it is that there are two
peaks in the same long season, one about June and the other,
during which the activity is much greater, in October and
November, after which it tails off with the drying of the
vegetation.

To begin with N. famosa, I may say that this is the only
Sunbird of whose nest you can feel absolutely certain at a glance
and without seeing the birds. As said above, the localities
chosen are away from those where the other Sunbirds nest.
Then the nest itself is distinctive. The other three are often
hidden in masses of Usnea: famosa’ s nest is always unencum-
bered and unhidden. It is more spherical than the others, and
carries so much ornamentation (if that is the idea) of cocoons on
the outside that the white patches look like fids of wool and
render the nest conspicuous. A very favourite site is in the
middle of a clump of low hypericum bushes at a height of three
or four feet from the ground. The entrance, which is as usual
with Sunbirds at one side near the top, has no projecting porch.
The interior of the nest is thickly lined with vegetable down,
fur, and often feathers.

I have found five pretty certain nests of N. tacazze, although
in the case of only one did I make absolutely sure by securing
the female. I find it far more exciting to try and identify
nesting birds with the aid of glasses alone, and regard having to
shoot one as rather a confession of failure. The other four nests
were in all respects like that from which I got the bird. All
are built mainly of Usnea, which unfortunately does not serve
to distinguish them from the nests of any other river-building
Sunbird in a locality where nine out of ten Passerines use this
material when nesting in trees near the stream. One character-
istic all five nests possess which I find in none of the other three
species and which I am therefore disposed to consider as diag-
nostic, and that is a thick pad of feathers as lining which

169

generally show up also at the entrance. Three out of the five
nests have a longish smooth “ beard ” of Usnea below the
entrance, looking as if it had been smoothed down level with
some care. A fourth has traces of this, but the fifth nest has
neither beard, nor the long broadening attachment above the
nest which all the other four exhibit. But in one undoubted
nest of Cinnyris mediocris there occur both beard and over-nest
attachment, so that neither of these can be called distinctive of
N. tacazze. Most nests of N. tacazze are built relatively high up
in the Hypericum trees, say at twelve feet and over; one only,
hanging over the river from a projecting juniper bough, was
within reach of a crook-handled walking-stick. All may be
described as pendent.

Common as is the bird, the nest of Drepanorhynchus is for
me a comparative rarity and I haye only one of which I feel sure,
though another from which one or more eggs fell and broke is
very like it and probably not C. mediocris the other possibility.
Both these nests are small for the bird, have no beard or upper
long attachment-strip, are lined throughout with vegetable down
only, without feathers. Both were built within hand-reach and
not at all concealed, one in a hypericum bush and the other near
the top of a shrub with fairly broad leaves. This is the one I
am not so certain about, and it differs from the identified nest
in having something of a projecting porch of thin stiff grass-
stalks which are also used as an overall binding for the nest as
a whole. It must be said, however, that this grass is also con-
spicuous about the entrance of the identified nest, though with-
out forming a porch. The latter is largely built of Usnea which
is only present in a small quantity in the other. Both nests are
well dotted on the outside with bits of grey-white insect webb-
ing, but not so extensively as happens with N. famosa. It is a
curious thing, but in at least four cases where I have seen the
female of Drepanorhynchus building, without my disturbing her
in any way or her exhibiting any embarrassment at my presence,
a later visit showed the nest to have been either abandoned or
carried away. All nests of this species that I have seen have
been within six feet of the ground, and two or three of them
within a couple of feet of it. Fairly close thickets of Leonotis
on the river bank, or spots about which there is a good growth
of hypericum and thus a certain concealment of the immediate
locality, are favoured.

Of the nest of Cinnyris mediocris I have very little definite
to say. My one absolutely identified nest (from the eggs and
presence of both birds at it) would pass for a nest of N. tacazze
(see above) from its beard and long lead-down above the top,
but is at once distinguishable by its lining, wholly of seed down,

170

feathers being conspicuously absent. Also, like most nests both
of N. tacazze and Drepanorhynchus, it has some of the thin wiry
grass about the entrance. Any height seems to suit this bird to
nest at, and the nest is rather hxed-in to Usnea than pendent.

But bulky as the nest is, the inside cavity is noticeably
smaller than in any of the nests of the other three species,
shallower a good deal for instance than that of Drepanorhynchus
which seems to be generally no larger a nest. This particular
nest was at six feet from the ground in a Hypericum, attached to
an outer branch, not hanging free in the air as the nest of N.
tacazze generally does, but not greatly concealed unless it were
by being fitted in as it was to a clump of the same Usnea of which
material it is itself constructed. Another nest was much smaller,
but unfortunately it was not preserved though the pair of eggs
are certainly those of C. mediocris.

Now a word as to the various eggs. Those of N. tacazze
appear to be far the largest. One taken 27th July measures
21 x 14, one taken 12th September 20.5 x 15, and a third, taken
6th November (this was the one identified from the bird being
obtained) 21 x 13.5. I have a still larger egg, which was too far
gone to preserve intact but measures about 22.5 x 13.5 These
eggs cannot be mistaken for any of the others. Only one egg
seems to form a full clutch. At the other end of the scale come
the eggs of Cinnyris mediocris , two to the clutch. Two sets
measure as follows: one taken 12th November 17 x 11.5, 17.25 x
11.75, and one taken 19th November 16 x 11.5, 16.25 x 11.5. These
might possibly be confused with eggs of N. famosa, of which
three clutches, one taken on the 12th October and the other two
two days later, measure respectively 17.5 x 12.75, 17 x. 12.5;
18.75 x 13, 19.25 x 13.5; and (a single) 18 x 12.75. It will be seen,
however, that there is no actual overlapping, so far as my
examples show, between these two species, and the nests could
hardly be mixed up. My sole identified egg of Drepanorhynchus
measures 20 x 14; it may be that this bird’s egg-measurements
will turn out therefore to overlap those of N. tacazze, but this
one egg is much broader in proportion to its length, more of a
true oval and less elongate, than the eggs I have of N. tacazze.
I am told locally that Drepanorhynchus, like Tacazze, lays only
one egg. There is so much uniformity running through the eggs
of all Sunbirds, with their ground of greyish or greenish white
and plentiful freckles of shades of grey and brown, usually
darkening at the cap, that I cannot be sure that any of my eggs
exhibit markings characteristic of and peculiar to the particular
species. In the same species some are relatively dark, some
light. Size is probably a better criterion.

171

NEW AND LITTLE-KNOWN LEPIDOPTERA FROM KENYA

AND UGANDA.

By V. G. L. VAN SOMEREN, F.R.E.3., F.L.S.

As I have already dealt with the groups to which the follow-
ing insects belong (with the exception of the Lycaenids), and
as it will be some considerable time before the opportunity arises
for revision, I have thought it advisable to publish this short
paper now.

ACRAEA MIRANDA, Riley. Pis. 1 and 2, figs. 5 and 6.

Ref. : Entomologist, 1920.

This species was described as long ago as 1920, but was not
included in Seitz’ Macrolepidoptera, African Section, Rhopalo-
cera; and I overlooked the species when, in 1925, I published the
section dealing with the Acraeas of Kenya and Uganda.

The description was based on a small series collected by the
late F. C. Selous near the “ Gwasi Nyeri ” (probably at Archer’s
Post on the Northern Guasso Nyiro) in 1912, and others taken
at Namanga, on the Kenya-Tanganyika border, in 1916. In
1928, the British Museum received additional material from
Merille on the Marsabit road, and a female from Berbera in
Somaliland.

The material which I have examined was taken by Mr. J. P.
de Verteuil, in a dry river bed 20 miles south of Muddo-gashi
(half-way between the Lorian Swamp and the Tana River).
About a dozen specimens were taken, and of these a pair were
presented to the Museum.

It will be observed that the species has a fairly wide distri-
bution, but it is remarkable that it has not occurred in the
numerous large collections which have passed through my hands
during the last ten years.

The insect is very distinctive, both above and below, and
should not be easily overlooked.

A brief description is as follows: —

Male. — General colour bright orange-red with black borders.
F.-w. ground colour bright orange-red to brick-red; narrowly
black along the costa and outer margin, with the black extend-
ing up the veins in gradually increasing length from the hind-
angle to the apex. Sub-apex with an oval ochreous transverse
“ bar ” reaching from the costa to vein 4, this patch outlined
with black proximally and accentuated distally by a black patch
filling the ground of areas 4-5 contiguous to the ochreous mark.
At the end of the cell is an oblique black line crossing the bases
of 4 and 5. H.-w. ground colour as fore, with the underside

172

pattern showing through. There is a small black dot toward
the base of the cell. Marginal border black with an extension
up along the veins, so that the inner edge of the border has a
dentate appearance. The distal half of the abdomen is white;
basal half black with white bars.

Underside: F.w. orange pink. The black line at end of cell
is repeated as also the ochreous sub-apical bar, outlined with
black proximally, but distally bordered with a greyish patch;
the ends of the veins are very narrowly black on greyish. The
margin of the wing is narrowly black. H.-w. with a very dis-
tinctive pattern on an ochreous ground; base of wing crossed by
a narrow black line; pinkish-red marks are present at base of
8, 7, and lc. Cell with a black dot sub-basally; the disc of the
wing crossed by a pinkish-grey curved band outlined in black
which starts at mid point on costa, passes through the apex of
the cell, then toward the inner fold where it extends upwards
in la. Then follows a band of the ochreous to naples-yellow
ground and beyond this the wing carries a wide border of orange
interrupted by greyish lines along the veins, and sharply cut
distally by a sub-marginal black line beyond which the border
is greyish ochreous. The wing fringe is white. The underside
of the abdomen is ochreous.

Female. — Somewhat like the male, but not so reddish-
orange, and the black of fore- and hind-wings not so intense.
The abdomen is orange-ochreous with black and white bars to
each segment, and with a dorsal black line.

The undersurface is very much as in the male, but the
pinkish orange is less strong on the discal curved band.

ACRAEA CONRADTI, Oberth. Pis. 1 and 2, figs. 1—4.

Originally described from the Usambara Hills in Tanganyika
Territory, and also recorded from Nyassaland, this species has
not hitherto, to my knowledge, been taken within the Kenya
boundaries.

A small series has now been obtained from the Teita Hills
from the forests of Wandanyi and Mbololo; it also occurs less
plentifully on Bura.

Male.— General colour rich brick-red with black apices and
borders.

F.-w. ground colour brick-red for the basal half to as far as
the end of the cell then to the hind angle where it stops short
of the black border which again is continuous with the black of
the distal half of the wing and along the costa. There is a slight
reddish scaling in the base of 3. There is a transparent sub-
apical bar crossing about the centres of 4-6. There are blackish
inter-nervular streaks from 2 to the apex.

173

H.-w. ground colour brick-red, slightly dusted over the base
with blackish scaling; marginal border broadly black, with the
inner edge angled at 5, and bluntly serrated by extensions of the
black along the veins and less so in the interspaces. The base
of the wing carries black spots as follows : three spots cross the
base of the wing, in la, sub-base of cell, and sub-base of 7. Then
follows a double row: two in la, two in lb set rather distad,
then two large ones in lc, followed by two large ones, one in
the cell and one at the base of 2; then two small ones at base
of 4, one at base of 5, one in 6, then a larger one sub-costa in 7.
The inner margin of the wing is yellowish, over la and lb.

Underside : Orange basal area as above but duller; the distal
half of the wing is greenish-ochreous with blackish along the
veins and with narrow blackish inter-nervular streaks.

H.-w. ground colour orange-ochreous over the disc, slightly
more greenish over the base and over marginal border; black
spots as above but more pronounced but the border is blackish
only along the veins with the internervular blackish streaks
widest proximally and tapering off distally and not reaching the
edge which is narrowly black.

The males have a superficial resemblance to Ac. baxteri
which also occurs on the hills, but they lack the basal black on
the hind-wings found in that species (fig. 2).

Female: The ground colour of the fore- and the hind-wings
is a semi-translucent pinkish-orange; the distal portion of the
fore-wing is less strongly scaled with black than in the male
more particularly in the bases of 3-5 so that the sub-apical
transparent bar appears wider. The black spotting of the hind-
wing is as in the male with additional spots at the base of 4 and
sub-base of 5. The marginal border, however, differs from that
of the male; the black is limited to black scaling along the veins
widest at the margin and tapering proximally, with the inter-
nervular black streaks smaller and reversed.

Underside: F.-w. as above but duller and the marginal
border and apex more greyish with slightly orange internervular
streaks. The hind-wing is more yellowish than above especially
along the inner fold and on the border. The black spotting is
similar to above but more distinct, whilst the border streaks are
slightly less heavy. Fig. 1 represents a normal female, whilst
figs. 3 and 4 are slightly aberrant as shown; in the one there is
a reduction of black spots and markings; in the other, an
increase.

LYCAENIDAE.

PSEUDALET1S BUSOGA. Sp. nov. Pis. 1 and 2, fig. 11.

This species was submitted to Prof. Poulton in 1931. It
was not represented in the British Museum, or in the Hope

174

Department at Oxford; nor could it be matched with specimens
in Tring or in the Hill Museum. (G. Talbot.)

It bears a strong superficial resemblance to Aphniolaus
pallene for which it was at first mistaken in the field. It was
obtained at Jinja, Uganda, in 1931, and has remained unique.

Description: Female. —General colour creamy white with
slight yellow to ochreous suffusion at the base of the fore-wing
and along the hind edge. A large black spot is present at the
apex of the cell. The fore-wing is narrowly edged with black
and for a short way along the costa. The hind-wing is less
narrowly black edged with a slight yellowing at lc; two fine
black tails are present, one on vein lb, the other on 2. The
abdomen is strongly yellow above, greyish below, and with long
brownish hairs on the anal extremity.

Underside: Similar to above, but with an additional black
spot in the fore-wing at mid in 4; the anal angle of the hind-
wing is more definitely yellow and carries two small black spots
on either side of the lower tail.

Distribution: Only known from Jinja, Uganda. Type,
female, March, 1931, in my collection.

STIJGETA BOWKERI KEDONGA. Subsp. nov. Pis. 1 and 2,
figs. 9 and 10.

Description: The points of greatest value are on the under-
side.

Female. — Differs from the race mombasae, Btlr. (which has
a very whitish underside) in having a much darker marginal
border to fore- and hind-wings; in having the fore-wing dark,
post-discal band wider throughout especially in areas lb-6 so
that the inner edge is not so notched by the white ground in
3 and 4.

In the hind-wing the dark discal band is darker and wider
and fills the areas enclosed by the brown lines in lb and 2.

On the upper surface, the blue is darker, and there is a
reduction in the size of the white markings in 2 and lb of the
fore-wing, and those of the hind-wing in areas 3-6.

The males differ in a corresponding fashion; the dark areas
being greater above and below.

Distribution: I have now taken and bred a considerable
number of this race from that portion of the Rift Valley stretch-
ing from the Ngong Escarpment to Lake Naivasha. The differ-
ences are constant throughout the series of twenty-odd examples
and cannot be matched by topotypical mombasae, from the coast
belt of Kenya, inland to Teita. Type, female, Ngong Escarp-
ment, Dec., 1937, in my collection. Para types, ten females.

Figs. 7 and 8 of Plates 1 and 2 depict the race mombasae.

175

NYMPHALIDAE.

CHARAXES DESMONDI. Sp. nov. PL 3, figs. 1 and 2.

This species was submitted to Prof. Carpenter, who writes
as follows : “ Your specimen is not like any of the brevicaudatus
in the British Museum — indeed it is not like any cithaeron ! The
narrow orange margin to the hind- wing and the black-centred
tails are very peculiar, and the underside markings are different
in detail. It looks like another species.”

This interesting new charaxes is described as follows:

Male. — Fore-wing rich deep blue-black, with slightly bluer
reflections basally. A narrow blue streak at base of 5; below
this a larger spot in 4, then a more rounded one sub-basal in 3;
with another directly below in 2. There is a long blue streak
in la, two spots in lb, sub-marginal and smaller spots in 2-4
followed by spots of increasing size and white in colour in 6-7.
On the edge of the wing are orange spots, two in lb, then one
each from 2-7. Hind-wing blue-black with a blue discal patch,
sharply defined above and distally and only slightly paler toward
the inner fold where the long hairs are greyish to buff at the
anal angle.

This blue patch, much bluer than in cithaeron , extends on
its upper edge to the middle portion of 6, reaching to the base
of 5, then through the apex of the cell. The outer edge is
defined and slightly indented by the black scaling extending for
a short way up the veins. There are very small blue inter-
nervular spots along the sub-margin to 6, and all along the edge,
from the anal angle to 7 is a marked orange line discontinuous
only at the veins. The two tails are relatively short and
entirely black.

It will be observed therefore that the main point of differ-
ence between this new species and cithaeron are: the reduction
in and the darker blue of the fore-wing spots; the darker blue
of the hind- wing patch; the almost black border with very small
spots which are not continued round the upper angle of the wing;
the dark orange parallel-sided marginal line; and the black tails.

Underside: Ground colour olive brown, less brown than in
cithaeron.

F.-w. olive-brown shading to dark grey on the hind margin
in area la, and more strongly golden in the cell. The cell is
crossed by three blue-black white outlined bars; at the end of
the cell are two narrower black lines. There is a small black
spot at root of vein 2, a crescentic mark at base of 2; there are
three U marks in the post-discal area, one indistinct in lb, one
in 2 and the third in 3, slightly white-lined distally. The “ eye-
spot ” in lb is golden proximally, mauve distally and carrying

176

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PLATE 3.

Char axes desmondi van-S.
Upper and under surfaces. (Male.)

Figs. 1 & 2. Charaxes druceanus proximans. J. & T. (upper surfaces, male and female.)
Figs. 3 & 4. Charaxes druceanus teita van-S. (upper surfaces, male and female.)

two blue-black ovate spots; there is a golden spot in 2, 3, 4, 5,
then white ones in 6 and 7. The margin is golden shaded,
especially internervularly.

H.-w. ground colour olive-brown. Two fine black lines
cross area 8 toward the base; two at base of 7, a constricted U
crosses the cell obliquely. A very faint whitish line crosses the
disc, just internal to the mid-point in 7, through the sub-base
of 6 thus set inward, then through the sub-base of 5, through
the base of 4, the sub-base of 3, thus distad to the one above, and
then passing obliquely to the inner fold above the anal angle.
There is then a sub-marginal series of V marks extending from
lb to 7, that in 6 set in somewhat. The marginal golden to
orange line is again more parallel than in cithaeron but the
blueish-mauve spots just internal are more strongly marked,
double at the anal angle, and extending up to 5.

F.-w. : There is thus a difference in the underside of the
two species, the most marked one being the position of the spot
and crescentic mark in at the root of vein 2, not distal to it, and
the mark in area 2 being set in toward the base and not reaching
the root of vein 3 as in cithaeron . The third line in the cell is
placed more proximally, thus away from the two lines at the
end of the cell. In the hind-wing the lines which pass through
the cell and the sub-base of 7 are more approximated to each
other and nearer the base.

The female is at present unknown.

In attempting to discover the relationship of this insect to
cithaeron and xiphares nandina, I have made dissections of the
genitalia of all three. It was not surprising to find hardly any
difference either in “ wet ” or dry preparations. In cithaeron ,
the penis is armed with two spines, one at the proximal third,
the other at the junction of the distal and mid third. In
desmondi there is only one projection with double short spines
at the proximal third (measuring from the end of the penis
sheath).

Distribution: The Teita Hills, W andany i-Mbololo Forests.

Type: Male, October, 1938, 5,000 feet; in the Coryndon
Museum. Taken at fermenting sap from a wound in a tree.
Para-type, one male.

CHARAXES DRUCEANUS TEITA. Subsp. nov. Pis. 4 and 5,
figs. 3 and 4.

This race of druceanus has been represented for many years
by a female taken by Canon Rogers, on the Teita Hills, and
tentatively associated with the race kivuanus. It is in the Hope
Department, Oxford University Museum.

177

I have now examined some twelve males and four females,
and have no hesitation in accepting them as representing a race,
distinct from either kivuanus or proximans the Kenya highland
form, or moereus of Transvaal. A representative pair were
submitted to Prof. Carpenter, who writes as follows: “ The
druceanus is also a problem. I could not match it in the
British Museum. . . . The female from Bura differs from

kivuanus by the broader pale band on the fore wing, which is
also darker than in kivuanus; indeed the Bura specimen, in
colour of the band, is like a Natal specimen in the Hope Depart-
ment. On the underside, the silver, and anal markings are
nearer to kivuanus than proximans or to moereus, Jordan, from
Transvaal. On the sub-apex of the fore-wing, the pattern of
light and dark is more like that of kivuanus than moereus, i.e.
the end of the black wedge on vein 5 is in contact with the black
patch in area 4 and through this with the more proximal patch
on the costa at the end of the cell. In moereus the distal
triangular blade (inverted) is isolated at its apex which does not
quite reach vein 5. . . . The male in some ways (deep colour)
is like moereus, but it is more purple. I have seen no male with
such a rich purple gloss. Its subapical fore-wing markings, like
those of its female, differ from moereus ”

Description: Female (type) differs from proximans, J. & T.,
by the different formation of the light fore-wing bar which in
its broad area through la to 3 is wider, extending more proxi-
mally, and in its distal portion through areas 4-7 is narrower,
more defined, and straighter on its distal edge. This narrowing
is in part accounted for by the greater size of the inverted
triangular black patch, which with its base on the costa extends
down to 5 and is then continuous with the well defined large black
spot in area 4, which again links up with the large black mark
beyond the end of the cell, thus entirely enclosing the yellow
mark in areas 5 and 6. The black transverse bar at the end of
the cell is quadrate. The marginal black border is blacker and
more defined. There is some similarity between this Teita race
(females) and kivuanus, hence the previous association of Rogers'
specimen with that form, but the fore-wing band is darker and
broader.

Underside: This is more boldly patterned; the black marks
are larger and more extensive, and the dark chestnut areas are
darker than in proximans. The cell bars, and the black marks
at bases of areas lb-3 are darker, those in 2 are coalescent.

Male (co-type) differs in much the same directions as the
female described above. It is very much more richly coloured
than any other race and has a very strong purple bloom through-
out the basal areas of the fore-wing. The marginal black

178

Plate 5. Undersurfaces.

r^gS'o1oA 2‘ £haraxes druceanus proximans. J. & T. (Male and female, undersurfaces)
lugs d & 4. Charaxes druceanus teita van-S. (Male and female, undersurfaces.)

PLATE 6.

m m

03 03
> >

Figs. 1 & 2. Male, Charaxes druceanus proximans var. nov. lugari,

Figs. 3 & 4. Female, Charaxes druceanus proximans var. nov. lugari,

borders of fore- and hind-wings are stronger and more defined.
On the underside there is the same intensification of colour
which gives a bolder pattern than in proximans. (Plates 4 and 5;
figs. 1 and 2 are typical proximans.)

Distribution: The Teita Hills, from Bura, Wandanyi, and
Mbololo. October, 1938, and again February, 1939. Paratypes:
five.

CHARAXES DRUCEANUS PROXIMANS var. LUGARI f. Nov.

PL 6, figs. 1-4.

and CHX. ALICEA , Stoneham.

I take this opportunity of referring to the specimen of
Charaxes described by Stoneham as alicea (not alicia) as men-
tioned in Jrnl. E.A. & U. No. 55-56, Vol. XII, p. 178, and figured
on PL 18). I recorded this as a variation of druceanus, on a
report made by T. H. E. Jackson, after having seen the type.
It is true, that in the original description Stoneham stated that
it might possibly be a variety, but nevertheless designated it a
species. Under letter dated April 30th, 1936, Col. Stoneham
writes that he “ followed the usual practice of describing it as
a species till it had been bred and its affinities proved.”

The specimens which are now before me exhibit on the
underside such a variation from the normal, carried to the
extreme in alicea , as would suggest at first sight that we are
dealing with distinct species, i.e. distinct from druceanus. How-
ever, these two examples suggest a transitional stage toward
alicea, so far as the underside is concerned, in that the pro-
nounced silver bar characteristic of druceanus is lacking, the
insects therefore have a more extensive chestnut colouration on
that surface.

The two specimens, a male and female, bred by R. T. Evans
at Lugari, and presented to the Museum, indicate very well
indeed those portions of the silver which are more fixed, and
perhaps more primitive.

Thus we find that in the fore-wing, the two black transverse
spots in area 2 and that in 3, are outlined completely by silver,
whilst the “ bar ” is pale chestnut to orange. In the hind- wing
we find that the “ bar ” is represented by three silver spots in 6-8.

The similarity of colour in these two sexes is very striking.

As regards the upper surface, the male exhibits a reduction
in dark markings, even along the border of the fore-wing and
less deep chestnut at the bases. The fore-wing “ bar ” appears
to branch into three, from area 4, for the sub-costal black marks
are widely separate.

In the female, the most noticeable feature is the reduction
in the width of the fore-wing “ bar ” brought about by the

179

increase in size of the black marks toward the bases of areas
2 and 3, and by the presence of a conspicuous large double spot
in lb. Furthermore the bases of 5 and 6 are largely black, but
the inverted “ costal triangle ” beyond is not strongly black.
The hind-wing sub-marginal blue spots up to 3 are large and
conspicuous.

It would seem therefore, that within the Trans-Nzoia
district, there is a tendency for two species, druceanus ( proxi -
mans) and eudoxus ( cabecus ) to appear without the characteris-
tic silver “ bars ” on the lower surface. That this is not a
chance mutation is suggested by the fact that in one family four
such specimens as I have described above were reared from eggs
laid by a parent of this type; and again, in the case of cabecus ,
a family of nine amaurus were reared from eggs of an amaurus
female. We are compelled, however, to consider both these
divergencies from the nominate types to be variations, probably
genetical, as the nominotypical forms also occur in the same
areas. It remains to be shown whether in a large family of
either species, some offspring will show lines, others not.

A BAT NURSERY.

A short while ago I paid a visit with Mr. G. H. E. Hopkins,
the Uganda entomologist, to one of the Elgon caves. The object
of the expedition was to collect bats of as many different species
as possible and to determine the parasites of each. Incidently
they were found to harbour fleas and mites of many different
species and several dipterous parasites. In the course of our
investigation using an electric torch, we came across a congre-
gation of a small dark coloured bat Miniopterus natalensis
arenarius, Heller, numbering some hundreds, clustered thickly
together over a natural dome in the roof of the cave. They
measured about 3 ft. in circumference and completely hid the
rock. A stick was thrown up among them scattering the colony
and there below clinging to the rock surface was a seething mass
of youngsters, pink, naked, and hairless. In a short time the
adults returned and covered them again. It would be interest-
ing to hear if this has been observed before.

T. H. E. JACKSON.

180

PANORAMAS illustrating the
General Narrative, published in
Part 1. Vol. XIV.

High lava
flow on

- «r-

s *>• -ssad

1 -

LINE O^^S&CT between FOREST’ i^ND' LAVA FLO
COVERING' OF LAPELLI ANp: EXI-IIB

v CONE NORA HILL

, ,Jm

W. THE LAVA HERE IS WITHOUT A
ITS NUMEROUS VENTS

T CHYUL

TREE-TDP

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CONTENTS

Pages

Some new TRYPETIDAE from Kenya: III.

By H. K. Munro. (Text figures) ... ... ... 1— 10

New PSYCHODA from Kenya Colony.

By A. L. Tonnoir. (Text figures) ... ... ... 11—14

Butterflies of Kenya and Uganda, Vol. 2, part 2
(Nymphalidae continued). By V. G, L. van
Someren, F.R.E.S., F.L.S. (Illustrated) ... 15 — 100

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Otye. Journal

OF THE

East Africa and Uganda
Natural History Society

September , 1939. Vol. XIV. No. 4 (65)

CONTENTS

Pages

Some new TRYPETXDAE from Kenya: XXX.

By H. K. Munro. (Text figures) ... 1— - 10

New PSYCHODA from Kenya Colony.

By A. L. Tonnoir. (Text figures) ... ... ... 11—14

Butterflies of Kenya and Uganda, Vol. 2, part 2
(Nymphalidae continued). By V. G. L. van
Someren, F.R.E.S., F.L.S. (Illustrated) ... 15 — 100

Editor :

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DEC 8 1838

SOME NEW TRYPETIDAE (DIPTERA) FROM KENYA
(CHYULU HILLS)

III.

By H. K. Munro.

Among the large series of Trypetidae kindly sent to me for
study by Dr. V. G. L, van Someren from time to time, are a
number of specimens collected by him in the Chyulu Hills.
Several of these represented known species, but there were also
some new species and others that must be regarded as varieties
of previously described species. The new species and varieties
are described here, and the types will ultimately be deposited
in the British Museum.

DACUS ( DIDACUS ) ARCUATUS , n.sp.

A species of the ciliatus group having all the yellow mark-
ings, except the dorsal stripes, strong, the third segment of the
male ciliate and the base of the ovipositor short. It belongs,
however, to the series in which the middle femora are entirely
ferruginous. It agrees more closely with ostiofaciens, Mro.,
rather less with tenebricus, Mro., as shown in the following
table :

Ostiofaciens .

Arcuatus.

Tenebricus.

Upper cross-vein
infuscated.

No.

Slightly.

Costal bar.

Complete, nar-
row and dark,
with apical
spot.

As in

ostiofaciens .

A dark spot at
stigma and api-
cal spot, pale
between.

Last section of
fourth vein.

Tip distinctly
upturned.

The whole form-
ing a gentle arc

Tip just
upturned.

Scutellar

bristles.

About equal to
length of scutel-
lum apart or
slightly more,
rather more
than half width
of base of scut-
ellum.

As in

ostiofaciens.

About the length
of scutellum
apart, but only
one-third width
of its base.

Holotype male, allotype female, 6 66, 6 9$ paratypes,
Chyulu Hills, Kenya, July, 1938, van Someren, reared from
fruits of Pergularia spp.; 2 66, 2 9 $ paratypes, Mbololo, Kenya,
same date and from same plant.

Length: 6 6.5 mm., of wing 5.0 mm.; 9 7 mm., of wing

4.75 m.m. Head normal, yellow; occiput brown, the margin below
yellow, above with a mere trace of yellow; frons barely one-
third width of head, slight black pubescence in middle, the fore
half dark brown or reddish, the lateral spots strong, ocellar dot
black, bristles black, two inferior, one superior orbital, ocellars
microscopic; lunule short, black; antennae brownish, slightly
darkened on outerside of third joint, first joint short, the other
two as long as cheek; face yellow, the black spots large and oval;
palpi and proboscis yellow. Thorax rather light ferruginous,
pubescence pale; there are the usual darker or blackish marks
and stripes on the dorsum and the mesopleura and sternites
black; yellow marks strong, namely, humeri, moderate meso-
pleural stripe from suture to sternite, single hypopleural spot
and scutellum except base; bristles: no anterior supra-alars and
no pre-scutellars, outer scapulars moderate, sometimes weak or
absent, or duplicated, the inner not developed, two scutellars;
halteres yellow; legs ferruginous, the middle femora wholly so,
the front pair paler basally with a blacker spot just past middle,
hind pair yellow on basal two-thirds, at end blackish, as also
tibiae, tarsi more yellow; wing with narrow black costal margin
from stigma including marginal cell, base of sub-marginal as
far as, and slightly but distinctly over upper cross-vein, and
oval spot on end of third vein, on either side of second vein more
yellow, anal stripe strong as also cloud below end of sixth vein
in male, the length of the point of anal cell compared to the
distance of its tip from the wing margin is about 3:2 in 6 , and
5 : 4 in 9 , but varies a bit from one specimen to another; the last
section of the fourth vein is a gentle curve entirely above a line
drawn through the point at the discal cell and the spot where it
touches the wing margin — in ostiofaciens and tenebricus such a
line coincides with the vein a little before its end, even if it does
not actually go slightly above before the tip. Abdomen rather
narrowed in specimens, normally probably oval; ferruginous
with a paler bar on the hind edge of second segment and a pair
of sub-lateral black spots on third segment which is ciliate in
male; pubescence pale and short; male genitalia dark; base of
ovipositor short, 1.25 mm., flattened, probably normally conical
as in ostiofaciens.

DACUS (PS1L0DACUS) INFLATUS, n.sp.

A black species very like D. macer, Bez.,* but the latter has
the costal margin on the wing stronger and wider, and the upper
cross-vein slightly infuscated. The new species also appears to
resemble apostata, Her., and ariana, Her.;f from both it differs
in the less acute position of the upper cross-vein and the shorter
point of the anal cell; apostata has the upper cross-vein infus-
cated and the only orbital the single inferior, while ariana has
two inferior and one superior orbital — in inflatus there are the
two inferior orbitals only.

Holotype male, allotype female and one female paratype,
Noka, Kenya, June, 1938, van Someren. Larvae in cucurb
No. 4.

Length: 6 5.0 mm., $ 5.5 mm., wing <3 4.75 mm., 9 5.25
mm. Head : proportions of length, height and width, 7:9:11;
occiput shining black, yellow below but no yellow edge on
upper part of orbits, brownish above neck and a yellow spot
behind vertex; frons somewhat concave in specimens, twice as
long as wide and about one fourth width of head, yellow, shin-
ing black over vertex including ocellar dot, but on each side of
latter is a brownish dot, across middle of frons a strong brown
bar one-sixth its length and connected to ocellar dot by a narrow
median stripe leaving thus a pair of large, rounded, yellow
spots on upper part of frons, the upper inferior orbital close to
front edge of brown bar, the lower at base of antennae, each
on a brown dot, superior orbitals absent, the ocellars minute,
hair-like, slight black pubescence on anterior middle, some pale
on sides; lunule black; antennae black, as long as cheek, the
first joint short, arista brown at base, bare; face, narrow cheeks
and genae yellow; palpi and proboscis yellpwish. Thorax
shining black, very lightly grey-dusted, except on anterior edge,
the dust further forming a more distinct pair of rather wide,
median stripes, narrow anteriorly and separated by a black
streak, there is moderate, short, pale pubescence on dorsum, but
no yellow post-sutural stripes; yellow are: humeri, a large
mesopleural area touching the sternite below but not, except a
trace in one specimen, on to the notopleural callus, and a
single, large hypopleural spot; the propleura and the fore, lower
corner of mesopleura more ferruginous and set with short,
appressed white pubescence, which on yellow areas is yellow;
scutellum yellow with slight yellow pubescence, the base
narrowly black; bristles black, no anterior supra-alars nor pre-
scutellars, only outer scapulars, two scutellars, a notopleural,

* Bezzi, Bull. Ent. Res., VIII, 180, fig. 3, 1917.
f Hering, Mitt. Zool. Mus. Berlin, 22, 257, 258, 1937.

mesopleural and a very weak or no pteropleural. Legs and
halteres yellow. Wing : the proportions of the length of the
stigma, the distances between first and second, and second and
third veins on costa are, in both sexes, 7, 5, and 10; the upper
cross-vein is markedly perpendicular, being at right angles to
the second vein and almost so to the third; the inner part of
first posterior cell widened much as is seen in macer, but
perhaps rather more so; point of anal cell acuminate, narrow,
rather wider in male, three-fifths length of rest of sixth vein
to wing margin in both sexes; stigma black, the marginal cell
barely infuscated, the submarginal not at all except at end
where the isolated, more or less oval, apical spot extends from
about midway between ends of second and third to as far
between ends of third and fourth; upper cross-vein not infus-
cated. Abdomen rugose, shining black, with moderate whitish
pubescence; the apical segment yellow in middle and at end,
but the rounded depressed areas black; sternites black; genitalia
yellow; base of ovipositor short, 1 mm., flattened in specimens,
light ferruginous, with pale, brownish pubescence.

PARDALASPIS CUTHBERTSONI , Mro.
var. NIGROTERTIUS, var. nov.

It seems best to regard the specimens recorded here as
representing a blacker, and slightly larger and more robust
form of cuthbertsoni; the variety differs most markedly in the
coloration of the abdomen.

Holotype male, allotype female, 5 male and 6 female para-
types, Chyulu Hills, Kenya, 6,000 feet, June, 1938, van
Someren. Larvae in fruits of Conopharyngia.

Length: 6 8.0 mm., of wing 7.0 mm., 9 12.0 mm., of wing
8.0 mm. Head : in both sexes as in cuthbertsoni , but upper
middle part of occiput black, and upper part of frons with
blacker tinge. Thorax : dorsum black, moderate whitish dust,
pubescence before suture short and yellowish, behind longer
and black; humeri and pleura light blackish-brown, upper half
of mesopleura yellow, the contrast much more strongly marked
than in cuthbertsoni; pubescence rather long, pale yellow, black
along top of mesopleura. Abdomen : in cuthbertsoni more
reddish brown, with fairly large, separated or more or less
indistinctly united spots. In the variety it is more completely
black, or brownish black, in particular the third tergite, only
the base, first segment, brownish, rather densely covered with
brown dust and pale yellow pubescence; the second segment is
black with thick blue-grey dust, only perhaps slightly paler in
middle where dust is brown, the pubescence black only pale on

centre of anterior edge; third segment brownish-black only hind
edge and lateral margins narrowly grey-dusted and a trace of
brown dust on middle, pubescence black (the coloration of this
tergite is the special difference from cuthbertsoni ); 4th segment
black, the posterior two-thirds thickly grey-dusted, leaving a
brownish-black bar, broken in middle, on anterior edge, on the
middle of each side is a conjoined spot and the inner, convex
margin of the brownish-black is broadly margined posteriorly
with white dust and white pubescence, which is otherwise
black; fifth segment has a broad spot on each side separated by
a yellowish spot on centre and bordered behind by whiter dust
and white pubescence but not as marked as on fourth segment,
apex of segment more or less reddish, pubescence black. In
one male the hind third of third segment is widely grey-dusted
and the black almost broken up into broad spots, and on the
fourth the anterior brownish-black bar is broken up into four
spots, the appearance thus approaching that seen in cuthbert-
soni. In the female the abdomen is almost entirely black, the
markings are obscure but much as in the male; there is thick
grey dust almost all over and the pubescence black except on
first segment and the hind edges of the pair of sub-median black
spots on the fourth segment; the second segment shows an
indistinct brownish spot towards each side; the third is more
strongly brown with less dust; on the fourth the median pair of
spots is more distinct, the anterior brown edge less marked
laterally and a pair of barely marked brown spots towards the
sides; fifth segment with indistinctly brown fore edge and pair
of dorso-central spots; sixth very short and blackish, the apical
bristles strong. Male genitalia reddish. Base of ovipositor
4.0 mm., flattened in specimens, blackish ferruginous on basal
half, black outwardly, pubescence black. Wing as in cuthbert-
soni, but in female the medial band rather stronger.

TYLASPIS QU1NOTATA, n.sp.

A brown species; differs from the others with bilobed
scutellum ( maraisi , Mro., and russa , Mro.) in the wing-pattern
which is characterised by a simple, conspicuous V-shaped figure.

Holotype d, Chyulu Hills, Kenya, April, 1938, alt. 3,500
feet, Coryndon Museum Expedition.

Length 5.0 mm., of wing 5.2 mm. Head: proportions of
length, height, and width, 2:3:4 (the length is rather more than
half width); occiput concave above, moderate below with pale
yellow pubescence; bristles yellowish with black setulae
between; frons prominent before eye, the fronto-facial angle
marked, width about two-fifths greater than length; slight
yellow pubescence before lunule; reddish-brown but light

Fig. I.

Tylaspis quinotata sp. nov.

brown broadly round dark ocellar dot, on vertical plates and on
sides in front; inner and outer vertical bristles, the two superior
orbitals abraded; ocellars very small, brown, three inferior
orbitals black; lunule large, about one-third length of frons, light
brown, whitish in middle and a little black pubescence on sides;
antennae about three-fourths length of face, third joint
narrowed outwardly, the apex rounded, first and second joints
with black setulae, arista short pubescent; face flat, the
epistome somewhat broadly prominent, with black pubescence
on sides; cheeks about two-thirds width of third antennal joint,
genae a quarter height of eye, a rather indistinct, sub-ocular
spot reddish brown, the black bristle strong; mouth opening
large; eye of moderate size, microscopically pubescent. Thorax
yellowish-brown, densely dusted; on dorsum a pair of wide,
dark brown stripes on dorso-central line; pubescence mostly
abraded but apparently pale yellowish; bristles normal, black,
on darker brown to black spots, dorso-centrals half-way between
anterior supra-alars and suture, two mesopleurals, the lower
weaker, pteropleural and sternopleural present, four scutellars;
scutellum flat above, the basal bristles on small black spots, the
apicals on large, shining black spots, the apex moderately bU
lobed; squamae pale yellow, of moderate size, ear-like; legs
light brown with black clothing except yellowish on front
femora and basally on middle pair; coxae with usual bristles
strong (one also on sternite before each middle coxa), front
femora slightly swollen and with row of black bristles; halteres
yellow; wing (fig. 1) stigma short, one strong costal bristle about
as long as stigma present and another apparently of same size
broken off, third vein with one or two setulae at base; pattern
yellowish-brown, base and stigma darker as also costa where
touched by bars. Abdomen yellowish-brown, pubescence on
segments one and two, and on hind edge of third yellowish,
black elsewhere as well as on sides of second segment, apical
bristles on last segment strong; venter pale brown, pubescence
yellowish, black on last sternite; genitalia brownish.

SPHENISCOMYIA NEAVEI , Bez.,
var. CHYULUENSIS var. nov.

Very like 5. neavei, Bez.* but with an additional hyaline
spot at the outer end of the discal cell.

Holotype 9, Chyulu Hills, alt. 5,600 feet, June, 1938, Coryn-
don Museum Expedition.

The specimen agrees with the description of S. neavei ;
length 3.0 mm., of wing 2.5 mm. It may be noted that there

* Bezzi, 1920, Bull. Ent. Res., X, 257, PI. xviii, fig. 6.

are two superior orbitals; the squamae pale, the halteres darker,
yellow; the black abdomen is faintly grey-dusted or etched
except the last tergite, which like the base of the ovipositor, is
polished as in neavei also; further, in the latter, only the hind
edge of the fifth tergite in the male is polished. The sixth
tergite is three-fourths the length of the fifth.

The wing-pattern is similar to that of neavei , differing in
the following points: the outer hyaline indentation the costa
does not quite reach the third vein; there is an additional fair-
sized hyaline spot in the discal cell touching the vein just below
the upper cross-vein. There are one or two setulae at the base
of the third vein and three or four over the first posterior cell;
this is like what is found in a female of neavei that I have, but
in a male there appear to be only one or two very minute
setulae over the first posterior cell. In any case the setulae
are extremely difficult to observe.

METASPHENISCA BEZZIANA (End.)

Enderlein, 1911, ZooZ. Jahrb., 31, 424, fig. F. Trypeta.

Bezzi, 1918, Bull. Ent. Res., 9, 22; 1924, id. 15, 125. Tephrella.
latincisa, Bezzi, 1924, Bull. Ent. Res., 15, 123; Munro, 1935, Ann.

Mus . Nat. Hung., 29, 14. Fig. 8-— wing 9. Aciura.

This is a very striking species that may be included in
Metasphenisca on account of the shape of the lunule. Having
examined Bezzi’s type and another female sent to me by Dr. van
Someren (Chyulu Hills, alt. 6,000 feet, June, 1938, Coryndon
Museum Expedition) there is no doubt that Bezzi’s species is the
same as that of Enderlein.

There seem to be normally two superior orbital bristles,
but in the Chyulu Hills specimen the upper on one side is
absent (apparently not abraded), the other small. In Bezzi’s
type the antennae are broken off; it may be noted now that the
third joint is somewhat narrowed outwardly, the upper edge
straight, the arista short pubescent.

BARYGLOSSA TERSA, n.sp.

Differs from B. histrio, Bez., in the absence of stripes on
the rather light brownish-yellow dorsum of thorax. B.
bequaerti, Bez., also has the thorax unstriped, but it has a very
different wing-pattern.

Holotype d, allotype 9 and a pair of paratypes, Kibwezi,
Kenya, June, 1938, van Someren (Chyulu Hills, Coryndon
Museum Expedition, alt. 3,000 feet). Bred from flowers of a
cucurbitous plant.

Length d 4.4 mm., 9 5.0 mm.; of wing 6 4.0 mm., 9 4.2 mm.
Head yellow, only ocellar dot black and lower part of cheeks
and sides of epistome brown; proportions of length, height and
width, 7:8:11, rather square in profile; occiput flat above
moderate below, the bristles thin and black; frons flat, strongly
projecting before eye, the fronto-facial angle a little less than
a right angle, as long as wide and not quite half width of head,
bristles black, rather long and thin^ two superior orbitals, two
lower as a rule, but in male type there are three, ocellars long;
lunule linear, inconspicuous; antennae about as long as short
face, third joint large, rounded-oval, arista brown, bare; face short
with strong median keel on each side of which strongly concave,
the epistome projecting moderately; cheeks very narrow in their
middle portion, genae narrow; eye large; palpi large, the
narrower, darker, basal part jointed to apical half which is
leaf-like and oval, yellow in colour, normally the palpi seem to
be carried well forward, pressed against the inner part of the
epistome and projecting beyond it; proboscis yellow, massive,
stumpy. Thorax: dorsum light brownish-yellow, pleura paler
becoming yellow on sternites; dorsal pubescence blackish,
pleural yellow; no stripes on dorsum only lower part of
humerus, a narrow, indistinct notopleural stripe, end of scutel-
lum between apical bristles and post-scutellum brown or brown-
ish to blackish; bristles complete, black, thin; inner and outer
(sometimes duplicated) scapulars thin, two humerals, the upper
smaller, three mesopleurals, the third smaller and in front of
the usual upper one, dorso-centrals on line of outer posterior
supra-alar (it may be noted that on the dorso-central line a few
hairs among the rather long pubescence are developed almost
bristle-like), pteropleural and sternopleural moderate. Scutel-
lum short, moderately convex, with black pubescence and six
bristles, the middle pair about half the length of the others;
upper squama dark with blackish rim, lower yellowish, almost
linear. Legs pale yellow with yellow clothing, but the row of
bristles on fore femora and some of the stronger hairs on the
hind, brown. Halteres yellow. Wing (fig. 2); the pattern is a
more reduced reticulation than that shown in Bezzi’s figure for
B. histrio although basically similar; the middle part of the
discal cell and most of the third posterior is hyaline, and the
apical fork not well-marked; no costal bristle; third vein
strongly setulose almost to its tip. Abdomen coloured as dorsum
of thorax, shining, and with black marks as follows: on third
tergite on each side an oval, sub-lateral spot, on the fourth the
lateral third a broad tongue extending inwards on the anterior
portion of the segment, thus leaving a somewhat pandurate,
yellow area on the middle, the fifth mostly black, only a
narrow, pestle-shaped area in middle. There is thus a com-

plete yellow median stripe, not present in histrio. In the
female the lateral black marks on the fourth segment leave a
narrow yellow margin on the anterior edge, but the marks are
somewhat variable in extent, the very short sixth segment is
only slightly yellowish in the middle of the fore edge. Venter
and membranes yellowish. Male genitalia shining black, with
long hairs. Base of ovipositor 1.0 mm., shining black with
black pubescence, conical, rather flattened basally.

TRYPETA PERINGUEYI (Bez.)

Bezzi, 1924, Ann. S.A. Mus., 19, 488, PI. xiii, fig. 37, 9; Bull.

Ent. Res. 15, 111 (Phorellia) ,

Munro, 1925, Union S. Afr. Dept. Agric., Ent. Memoirs 3, 51;

1929, id. 6, 13 ( Phorellia ); 1935, id. 9, 48 ( Trypeta ).

The type is a damaged female from the Cape Peninsula in
the South African Museum, Capetown; I have a good female
paratype from East London. The species appears to extend
from the Cape Peninsula, round the southern coastal area, then
northwards through Natal and on to Kenya, where Dr. van
Someren has bred it in numbers.

The male has not previously been recorded. It differs from
the female in being generally smaller and the wing with a
yellow, diffused pattern. Instead of the broadly M-shaped
pattern formed of fairly well-defined bars, the latter become
broadly connected longitudinally, so that the wing is almost
entirely yellow with a few hyaline spots. Thus, the fore part
of the wing is broadly yellow with only a small hyaline spot
about the middle of the sub-marginal cell; the first basal cell is
largely hyaline in the middle and the first posterior has a large
spot at its base and one, less marked, outwardly; the discal cell
is yellow; the second basal also yellow but broadly pale yellow-
ish outwardly; the third posterior pale yellowish towards the
end of the sixth vein. In some males the bars are more distinct
as they are blacker and there are more extensive hyaline areas
in the marginal, sub-marginal and discal cells, but there is
always some longitudinal connection between the bars,
especially in the discal cell.

The abdomen in both sexes is banded black and yellow, the
anterior halves of the segments black, where they are also to
some extent yellowish on the middle line.

Males seem to be generally less numerous than females. I
have only seen one male from South Africa, a specimen collected
in the Katberg, Cape Province, October, 1932, by Mr. R. E.
Turner; this is in the British Museum collection. Several males
were found in the material reared by Dr. van Someren in
Kenya.

NEW PSYCHODA FROM KENYA COLONY (CHYULU

HILLS).

By A. L. Tonnoir

( Senior Research Officer, Canberra, Australia ).

PSYCHODA LATISTERNATA sp.n.

A small, uniformly brownish species belonging to the
group of Ps. amphorica , Tonn., bilobata, Tonn., and albida,
Tonn,, in which the antennal segments 14 and 15 are united.

Male: Eye bridges closely approximate, the distance

between them equal to the width of one facet. Antennae 16
segmented, the bulb of the 3rd segment (fig. 1) a little longer
than that of the 4th and more or less amphora-shaped, median
segment (fig. 2) with moderately elongate neck; the 14th and
15th united, the 16th ovoid, distinctly smaller (fig. 3). Ascoids
long Y shaped, present in pairs on segments 3 to 13, a sensory
pore on each side of their base (fig. 2).

Palpi with first three segments subequal to each other, the
fourth just a little longer, scarcely thinner.

Labial lobe as in fig. 4, with three terminal elongate cones
and a small one; two lateral bristles.

Wing (fig. 5) rather broad, nearly half as broad as long;
origin of stem of anterior fork placed on apex of basal cell,
posterior fork exactly midway between this apex and the
anterior fork.

Hypopygium: ninth* sternite relatively broad; coxites only
half as long again as broad, rounded on the outside but not
bulging, styles only a little longer, wedge-shaped but with apex
curved inwards and carrying conspicuous sensory setae;
aedeagus symmetrical, apparently formed of two identical pieces
which may actually be fused up to their tip (fig. 6). Cercopod
longer by one half than the 9th tergite, its basal half incrassate
but not really bulbous; retinacula long and thin (fig. 7), point-
ing towards each other; pseudo spiracles of 9th tergite fused into
one single opening; internal lobes (fig. 8) small and pubescent.

Wing length: 2.19 mm.

Holotype: Chyulu Hills, Kenya, April, 1938, V. G. L. van
Someren.

This species differs from Ps. undulata , Tonn., amphorica,
Tonn., bilobata, Tonn., and albida, Tonn., to which group it

belongs on account of the structure of the last few antennal
segments, by the absence of any trace of distal neck on segment
13 and by the structure of the genitalia which lack the large
divergent parameres and also by the relatively broad 9th
sternite.

PSYCHODA ALBIDONIGRA, sp.n.

A black and white species with fourteen segmented
antennae, belonging to the group of Ps. acuta , Tonn., and
latipennis , Tonn., on account of the conformation of the last
two antennal segments.

Covering of body and wing ochraceous white; that of the
head, base of antennae and legs brownish black, anterior legs
darker; small black tuft on the base of costa blackish, contrast-
ing with the rest of the pale vestiture of the wing.

Female: Eye bridges separated by a distance equal to two
facets. Antennae 14 segmented, third segment scarcely longer
than the fourth (fig. 9), no suture between segments 13 and 14
(fig. 10), the latter very small, spherical. Ascoids Y-shaped,
present in pairs on segments 3 to 13.

Palpi with first three segments subequal to each other, the
fourth only a little longer, not much thinner.

Labial lobes (fig. 11) with three long cones and two small
ones between them; two long lateral setae.

Wing fairly narrow, not quite three times as long as wide;
venation exactly as in Ps. latisternata (fig. 5), the second costal
callus also present and just as large.

Subgenital plate as in fig. 12, the distal lobes divergent; the
internal sensory organ long and curved, two fairly large internal
lobes at its base; ovipositor normal.

Wing length: 1.9 mm.

Holotype (on slide): Chyulu Hills, Kenya, VI — 1938,

V. G. L. van Someren.

Paratype: one $, same locality and date.

On account of its peculiar colouration, which, strange to
say, comes very near to that of an as yet undescribed species
from New Zealand, Ps. albidonigra cannot be confused with
any of the Ethiopian species. It has some affinities with two of
them, Ps. acuta , Tonn., and latipennis, Tonn., the antennae of
which being also 14 segmented and the last segment very small,
spherical and united to the 13th. This structure of the antennal
tip is found in other as yet undescribed Ethiopian species
and will probably be found to be a common feature among the
species of Psychoda of that region.

The large internal lobes of the subgenital plate are quite a
unique feature. It is probable that they may remain attached
to the base of the ovipositor when the dissection is not very
carefully done.

Legends.

Figs. 1 to 8 Psychoda latisternata sp.n. male: 1 base of
antenna, 2 median segment, 3 tip of antenna (same scale as 1),
4 labial lobe, 5 wing denuded, 6 upper part of hypopygium, 7
lower part, same scale, 8 internal lobes, larger scale.

Figs. 9 to 12 Psychoda albidonigra sp.n. female: 9 base of
antenna, 10 tip of antenna, same scale; 11 labial lobe, 12 sub-
genital plate seen from below, on the side profile of internal
organ.

REFERENCE.

A, L. Tonnoir: Ruwenzori Expedition, 1934-35, Vol. 1, No. 4, 1939.
Psychodidae , pp. 33-80, 156 figs., 2 pi.

Plate A

Larvae, pupae and egg of Aterica galene.

Plate B

Larvae and pupae of Aterica galene.

Plate C

Larvae and pupae of Diestogyna ribensis.

THE BUTTERFLIES OF KENYA AND UGANDA.

Vol. II. Part 2.

Family NYMPHALIDAE.

Sub-family Nymphalinae.

( continued )

By V. G. L. van Someren, f.r.e.s., f.l.s., etc.,

With Introduction and Notes by T. H. E. Jackson, f.r.e.s.
Introduction.

The Nymphalinae comprise the following genera: Euphae -
dm (already dealt with), Cymothoe, Euryphura, Diestogyna ,
Euryphene, Euptera, Hamanumida, Cyandra, Pseudathyma,
and Aterica, all of which are dealt with in this paper; a few
which do not occur within the boundaries of Kenya and Uganda,
such as Hamilla and Craenidomimas; and a further four which
w'ill be the subject of a future paper: Catuna, Pseudoneptis,
Pseudargynis , and Pseudacraea.

They are all purely African Genera, no examples occurring
anywhere but on this continent.

The systematics of the nine genera included in this paper
are very confusing. An attempt was made recently at the
British Museum (Nat. Hist.) to isolate the various species by
dissection and examination of the male genitalia. Unexpected
difficulties arose, many well-known and distinct species appeared
identical in this respect and the attempt was finally abandoned.
It should be stated that the dissections were all made by the “dry
method,” i.e. slides were prepared and afterwards examined.
It would seem, however, that a more satisfactory method known
as the “ wet preparation,” as advocated by Brig. -General Evans,
in his recent Monograph of the African Hesperiidae, might
bring to light points of specific distinction, otherwise obscured.
Failure to differentiate the species by means of genital examina-
tion does not therefore imply that the classification of the species
in the British Museum is incorrect.

It is significant that in all Uganda forests, very few species
of any one genus occur, although individuals of each species
may differ markedly in external facies, especially in coloura-
tion, from those occurring in neighbouring forests.

From such evidence as is available, it would appear prob-
able that we are in reality dealing with comparatively few
species in each genus with so many isolated races, each con-
fined to its particular forest.

Factors which have probably given rise to this apparent
differentiation into racial forms are: (a) that, with very
few exceptions such as Hamanumida , all are forest species;
(b) that they are restricted to a certain type of habitat,
avoiding open spaces, and keeping to dense cover; (c) that
because of their restricted environment interbreeding must
result in an intensification and eventual stabilisation of certain
characters which have arisen as a mutation or variation from
the normal, and in the course of association with other species,
have proved beneficial.

A species confined to one small area defined by the boun-
daries of its own particular forest, from which it is prevented
from straying by an inherent dislike of open spaces, is an ideal
subject for the action of natural selection and may therefore be
expected to produce different forms in different localities.

The habitats of this group of genera are unique: as stated
above, all, with one exception, are forest species, dense forest
being preferred to more open growth. The flight is swift and
erratic and seldom more than a few feet above the undergrowth.

Whereas most of the Rhopalocera require strong sunlight to
stimulate flight, the species of this group, owing to the dense
forest conditions in which they live, are comparatively un-
affected by light and may be seen flying or feeding in dull
weather and quite late in the afternoon. It is nevertheless a
fact that males will choose a patch of sunlight in which to bask,
and if disturbed will return to the same place. Advantage may
be taken of this habit, for the best method of capturing them is
to stand as motionless as possible over some sunny patch from
which a butterfly has been disturbed, until it returns. The
power of vision is unusually well developed, the slightest move-
ment being observed, but motionless objects are not distin-
guished. It is almost impossible to stalk a member of this group
—invariably the insect is scared away before it can be caught,
but if one stands quite still and a second collector circles around
behind and then walks toward one, the insect will often fly
straight to the net.

All the members of this group feed on fermenting fruits and
many, in both sexes, may be attracted to banana bait. A forest
may appear to be quite untenanted away from the clearings,
until one comes across a fig tree with fallen fruit lying below,
and then hundreds of these butterflies will be found feeding
thereon. The females, otherwise scarce, being occasionally seen
flying about the undergrowth in search of the food-plant, are
equally attracted to this type of food.

The colours of the males, and in many cases both sexes, are
startlingly brilliant as the wings are opened for a second in a

shaft of sunlight, only to be closed again on the slightest move-
ment near at hand. The underside patterns are strongly pro-
cryptic and the dazzling effect of the uppersides followed
instantaneously by a “ black-out ” must form a very efficient
protection against predators such as birds.

The mimetic associations of the group are interesting. In
the males there is much Mullerian mimicry, instances of which
are recorded in the text after each species. The Diestogyna form
a group to themselves; most of the species being black or dark
brown with blue and purple reflections which in other parts of
tropical Africa is closely mimicked by males of certain Eury -
phene. In the latter genus is a group centred round E. absolon
entebbiae, Lthy,. comprising five species in Uganda, all of which
are brown with dark transverse bars, and practically indistin-
guishable above.

In the Euphaedra, a large and powerful species, E. spatiosa ,
is mimicked by the female of E. medon jraudata and the male of
E. paradox a. Incidentally also to this group belong the females
of Charaxes tiridates, numenes , bipunctatus, and the cedreatis
form of etheocles (s.l.).

In the females, practically every species belongs to one or
another group, the most notable being the female of certain
Diestogyna and Euryphene which mimic Catuna crithea, a very
common species, concerning which there is some evidence to
support the view that it is distasteful — it has a slow deliberate
flight close to the ground and makes no attempt to escape — the
exact opposite to its mimics. It is closely mimicked by the
females of D. ribensis, Ward, obsoleta , Grunb., goniogramma,
Karsch., saphirina, Karsch., Eu. absolon entebbiae, Lathy.,
carshena, Hew., and Cyandra opis, Dr. It is suggested that this
is a true Batesian mimicry with Catuna, and much Mullerian
mimicry amongst themselves, though it is of course not always
possible to draw a line between the two types of mimicry.

The larvae and pupae of the group are highly procryptic; the
former are furnished with a fringe of long spiny filaments
carried laterally, which lie out flat on either side of the body.
The larva rests along the mid-rib of a leaf with its feathery fila-
ments flattened against the surface and corresponding to the
veins of the leaf. They are thus extraordinarily difficult to see.
The pupae are beautiful objects, adorned with spines, spots, and
colours, and are of such irregular shapes as can be seen in any
curled up leaf.

T.H.E.J.

In preparing this paper, I have had the valuable assistance
of Mr. T. H. E. Jackson, who has made available to me many
species not previously recorded from Uganda. In the case of
types of new races or forms, arrangements have been made that
those described from Mr. Jackson’s material will be deposited in
the British Museum, Natural History; other types will be found
in the Coryndon Museum, Nairobi.

I should like to place on record my grateful thanks to Mr.
G. Talbot, of the British Museum, whose help in, and knowledge
of, this very difficult group have proved invaluable.

Much still remains to be done, particularly with regard to
the early life-history of the species recorded; their seasonal
variation, geographical distribution, and mimetic associations.
Owing to their retiring habits and the very brief glimpses one
obtains of many of the group, little or nothing is known of their
food plants, eggs, and larvae.

V. G. L. VAN SOMEREN.

NYMPHALIDAE (Continued).

HAMANUMIDA DAEDALUS, F. PI. I, figs. 1—6.

Expanse 25-35 mm. Sexes very similar. General colour
brownish slate-grey.

Male and female: F.-w. ground colour brownish-slate-grey,
tending to become more brownish with wear. Apex often with
a white tip; cell with two subcostal white dots outlined in black
with black and white lines from each to hind edge of cell; apex
of cell with an incomplete figure 8 mark in black and white.
Extreme edge of wing with white spots at veins, followed by a
submarginal row of white dots, often triangular in shape, out-
lined proximally with black; running parallel and internal to
this is a further row of white spots, double in lb, circular in
shape and outlined in black; between this and the cell is another
row outlined proximally with black, double in lb, the spots in
5 and 6 inclined toward costa.

H.-w. ground colour as fore-wing; cell with one or two black
irregular shaped rings; the disc of the wing with three royys of
white spots continuous with those of the fore-wing, the veins
between the submarginal and next row often black and connect-
ing these spots.

Undersurface: Variable; ground colour greyish-tawny to
orange-tawny, the marks and spots of above may be only slightly
reproduced below, with a whitening of the posterior angle, or
they may be very conspicuously white or bluish-white with the
spot in the sub-base of the hind-cell well marked.

The form with well marked white spots below has been
named f. meleagris, Cr.

Early stages: The eggs are laid on various species of Com -
bretum either on the upper or lower surfaces of the younger
leaves. They are hemispherical, faceted and strongly spined,
creamy to pale green in colour. Egg stage five to ten days.
Larva very similar to those of Euphaedra, possessing lateral
feathery spines from the second to penultimate segments; general
colour dull green. The larvae rest on the mid-rib of the leaves
and are thus difficult to detect. One finds them more often on
the young shoots of trees that have been cut. In the first instar
the young larva is olive with hardly any indication of lateral
processes. As the larva matures it becomes more translucent.
The pupa is greenish very euphaedra-like but with less promi-
nent tubercles on the dorsum and wing angles. Many are devoid
of golden or silvery bases to the tubercles. Pupal stage averages
one month.

Distribution: The species is distributed throughout Kenya
from the coast to the highlands up to 10,000 feet and is also
plentiful in Uganda. It is not a forest insect but occurs in the
open grass country where there are scattered trees and their
food plant. Such suitable localities are often found between
forest patches where the grass is not tall and rank; indeed the
insect is very often associated with almost bare areas where they
are found sitting with wings outspread on rocks and bare
ground. The colouration is highly cryptic. The flight is swift
and gliding. One finds them most active in the late afternoon
just as the sun is well on the slant. Their movements are rapid
and because of their colour, very elusive. They, however,
never fly very far and can be captured if pursued.

ATERICA GALENE , Brown. PL 2, figs. 1-4, PI. 3, figs. 1-2.

Expanse: Males 24-32 mm.; females 33-40 mm. Sexes
unlike.

Range: Uganda to Elgon and Nandi.

Male: F.-w. : Ground colour velvety black at base inclining
to black-brown distally; light spots yellowish-white in a curved
row from sub-costal in the cell, increasing in size to cellule 2;
cell often with two or three bluish wavy transverse lines; a sub-
apical series of spots double in four as parallel streaks, very
small in 5 and larger sub-costally in 6; very often the spot in 5
is absent; apex finely white tipped; margin white between veins.

H.-w. brown-black paler toward costa and inner margin; a
large yellowish-white patch narrowest toward inner margin and
widening out toward the mid points in cellules 5-7, distal and

hind margin of this patch serrated. Many examples have a
series of black submarginal lines faintly outlined with whitish
and the extreme edge is white internervularly.

Under surface: Ground colour of fore-wing blackish paling
toward the posterior edge, tip olive-ochreous with a brownish
suffused patch just below apex; light spots of above present
below. H.-w. ground colour olive-ochreous with diffuse darker
olive bars distal to the patch of above which is less distinct;
cell with a strongly marked velvety-black bar, sub-basally.

Female: F.-w. ground colour black-brown, spots as in the
male but white and larger, the cell marks more pronounced and
with a clear white line proximal to the apical cell spot some-
times carried up to the costa. H.-w. black-brown at base and
outer side, shading to brownish at anal area with black rays
widening out at margin and meeting a wavy blackish sub-
marginal row of lines often accentuated with slight white lines;
extreme edge white lined at veins, markedly so opposite 7-8;
h.-w. patch pure white.

Under surface: Very similar to the male but less olive, more
greyish in ground on the hind- wing. F.-w. spots white. H.-w.
patch less clear and sub-basal black mark not so parallel sided
and often broken into two spots.

Variations in the female are met with: (a) in which the

hind-wing above lacks any brownish suffusion at anal angle; (b)
a variety in which the h.-w. patch is suffused with yellowish
and the anal portion of the wing is strongly red-brown; (c) f.
extensa , Heron, has larger white spots and patch on upper side
(Ruwenzori). Often with orange suffused h.-w. patch.

ATERICA GALENE THEOPHANE , Hopff. PI. 2, figs. 5-8.

PI. 3, figs. 3-4.

Range: Coastal districts of Kenya.

Size similar to above. Males with less curved outer margin
more acuminate and pointed apex; spots above strongly yellow,
the h.-w. patch with a strong orange-red suffusion on posterior
edge and outer and posterior edge of patch not serrated. F.-w.
spotting larger. H.-w. : Marginal and submarginal row of
whitish lines more pronounced. Undersurface similar to
Uganda race but yellower, sub-basal spots in cell often entirely
wanting, if present much more reduced.

Female: Somewhat like Uganda race but hind-wing patch
usually strongly suffused with orange and nearly the whole of
the inner half of wing strongly brownish.

A variation of the female has orange spots on f.-w. above,
and the whole of the h.-w. except for upper angle and margin
strongly orange. PI. 2, fig. 8.

Early stages: The eggs are laid singly on the upper sur-
faces of a thick stemed creeper (native name (Lug.) ‘"Sedondo”)
usually on the young leaves of the root suckers. The eggs are
small, about .5 mm., light yellow in colour, dome shaped with
hexagonal facets, at the angles of the facet a clear spine. The
egg turns grey just before the larva is due to emerge. Egg stage
7-8 days.

When newly emerged the larva is translucent olive with
very small lateral spines. It does not appear to eat the egg
shell. After the second moult the lateral processes are spined,
and the general outline including the spines is oval. The body
colour is canary yellow, but the spines, with the exception of
the first and the two last are transparent with black lateral
feathering. The first and two last feathery processes are black.
Along the dorsum of the body is a blue and black stripe; this
line under low magnification is seen to be composed of a series
of jet black triangles apices toward the anal extremity
separated by bright blue dots. In the last stage the larva is a
flat oval (including the feathery processes) 30 mm. long by 25
mm. broad. These lateral processes are light greenish; the body
colour is yellow with, along the meso-dorsal aspect, a blue line
bordered on either side by small black triangles, one on each
side to every segment. These black triangles are the result of
division of the black triangles seen in the younger larva.
The larvae lie up along the mid-rib of the leaves. When
ready to pupate it loses its bright colour. Before this change
takes place, the larva will devour all the leaf it is on until only
the mid-rib is left and at its extremity it spins its silk and
secretes a yellowish fluid. From this silken base it prepares to
hang head down, and the lateral feathery processes are directed
toward the ventral surface. Having attached itself it sheds its
larval skin within 24 hours.

It is of interest to note here that the yellow band on the
pupating stalk is highly objectionable to predatory insects such
as ants. They will not cross this band. Yet, if one places a
detached pupa near ants they will at once attack and eat it.

The pupa is a beautiful object. It is a semi-translucent
yellowish-green, spindle shaped with darker green veinings
running in wavy lines in a somewhat irregular manner. Its
colour, shape and shiny surface, together with its position on
the stalk or twig, give it a most remarkable resemblance to the
glossy young shoots and leaf buds of the food plant.

The pupal stage lasts from ten to fourteen days.

Distribution: The Uganda race is distributed throughout
the forests and riverine forests and is common, more particu-
larly in the central province. This race extends to the Elgon-

Nandi districts and is occasionally found in the Londiani district
as also in the Kericho-Sotik areas.

The coastal race is plentiful throughout the forests and
forest patches, extending inland to the Taveta area. It also
extends up the Tana system to Meru at 5,000 feet. It does not
appear in the highland forests of Kenya.

The flight of the male is swift and rapid gliding; that of the
female is slower, but protection is afforded by its mimetic
resemblance to species of Aviauris found in the areas of its
distribution. Whereas the males are often seen flying along
exposed forest roadways and paths and in forest clearings, the
females rather restrict themselves to the more open forest
undergrowth in which the food plant is growing.

CYNANDRA OPIS, Dr. PL 3, figs. 5-8.

Expanse: Male, 23-27 mm.; female, 30-32 mm. Sexes unlike.

Male: F.-w. strongly iridescent blue to black through the
basal § to black at the apical portion; cell crossed by four pea-
cock-blue-green lines and a bar of the same colour at apex, this
last continuous with a wavy bar of the same colour which
passes through the bases of 2, 3, and sub-basal in la, lb. A
further line of the same colour passes from the mid-point of
la, lb, 2, and slightly in 3, directed toward the apex and reach-
ing an S series of pure white though small spots which run
from sub-costal in 7 to 2. There is a further blue-green bar
following the contour of the wing but not reaching the hind
submarginal angle.

II. -w. ground colour black with strong blue reflections over
most, but not toward costa, and becoming greyish at the inner
fold. Four peacock-blue-green wavy bars cross the wing; one
basal, one through the apex of the cell; a third in a line from
the upper angle to mid-point on inner edge; the fourth follows
the contour of the wing more or less, and is contiguous with a
submarginal series of blue lunate marks, the three last bars
merging into one another in certain lights. The edge of both
fore and hind wings white.

Under surface: F.-w. basal half brown; the cell with two
lilac-grey transverse bars; the apical half of the wing mostly
lilac-grey the white spots of above present below as a series of
arrow-shaped white marks; towards the sub-apex, a large
triangular dark-brown mark shaded with rufous, base toward
margin of wing, apex toward mid-point in 4. H.-w. costa and

marginal border chocolate-brown with an extension of this
colour from the costa to mid-point in 8-7 and reaching a bar of
the same colour which crosses the wing from sub-base in la,

Plate 1

Hamanumida daedalus, F.

Figs. 1 & 2, males (seasonal variation).

Fig. 3, female, upperside.

Figs. 4-6, variation on females on undersurface.

Plate 2

Aterica galene galene, Brown.
Figs. 1-2, males, Uganda.

Figs. 3-4, females, Uganda.

Aterica g. theophane, Hopff.
Figs. 5-6, males, Kenya coast.
Figs. 7-8, females, Kenya coast,

Plate 3

Aterica galene galene. Aterica g. theophane.

Fig. 1, male; fig. 2, female, Fig. 3, male; fig. 4, female,

undersurfaces. undersurfaces.

Cyandra opis , Dr.

Figs. 5 & 7, male, upper and undersurfaces.

Figs. 6 & 8, female, upper and undersurfaces.

Plate 4

Diestogyna ribensis, Ward.
Figs. 1 & 2, upper surfaces, males.

Fig. 6, male, undersurface.

Figs. 3 & 4, upper surfaces, females.
Fig. 5, female, undersurface.

the apex of the cell and toward the upper angle. The interven-
ing areas are lilac-grey, this colour in the discocellulars taking
the outline of “ drop ” marks greyish internally.

Female: F.-w. ground colour olive-brown-black, the distal
half of the veins ochreous. Two double line yellowish bars
cross the cell, one basal, one at about mid-point, followed by
single lines through the apex of the cell, with a fourth directed
from the sub-costa to mid-point in vein 5. A yellowish line
gradually increasing in width runs from the base of vein 4,
through the base of cellule 2, 3, and sub-basal in la, lb. A wide
yellowish ochreous bar starts at the hind margin at mid-point in
la, lb, and 2, and is continued by a curved series of white spots
to mid-point in 7. H.-w. ground colour as fore- wing; the yellow

bar of fore-wing is continuous with one in the hind-wing from
mid-point of costa, gradually tapering off to mid-point on the
inner margin. An ochreous fine bar crosses the sub-base
of the wing. Three wavy ochreous lines diminishing in width
from inner to outer cross the discocellulars, the outermost sub-
marginal and not reaching the upper angle. The veins are
slightly indicated by yellowish scaling.

Under surface: Base of hind-wing and basal half of fore,
lilac-grey, the yellowish bar of the upper surfaces represented
below by ochreous-yellow with an increase of this colour over
the greater part of the hind wing except for a brownish patch
at the upper angle and two wavy brownish lines through the
discocellulars. The cell of the fore-wing is crossed by two
wide brown bars outlined with paler lilac and beyond the cell
a further pale bar which runs continuous with the yellowish bar
representing that of the upper side; the white spots of above
are reproduced below, while a brownish diffuse bar is present
sub-marginally and an orange patch is present on the distal end
of cellules 3 and 4.

Early stages: Unknown to me.

Distribution: Occurs in the forest of Uganda and so far
not taken further east.

The male of this insect is distinctive. Its peculiar shape
and highly iridescent colouration at once distinguish it from
any other species. The female, on the other hand, is confus-
ingly similar to the female of Diestogyna ribensis in the field,
and it resembles to a lesser degree females of D. obsoleta and
this sex of Eury phene absolon entebbiae and carshena.

The flight is a series of rapid wing beats and glides and
although not long sustained, the insect is difficult to capture.

(The beautiful iridescent blue of the male of this species
is probably the finest sight for the collector in Eastern Africa.
The females belong to the Diestogyna association of mimicry,

which includes D. ribensis, saphirina , obsoleta, Eu. carshena ,
and absolon with as model for all of them, Catuna crithea, a
species of thick forest where it behaves like the Diestoqvna —
T.H.E.J.)

Genus DIESTOGYNA, Karsch.

General Notes on the Group.

(The species of this genus are essentially forest insects, and
are rarely seen, and then only for a moment even in clearings
in the forest. In Kakamega, I have seen D. ribensis and D.
saphirina on the roads through the forest, but always in the
shade of an overhanging tree, and I regard even this as unusual.
They prefer dense forest where both sexes may be observed
feeding on the ground, on fallen fruits, or the males may be
seen sitting for a time, on a leaf, sun-bathing. When feeding
the wings are always closed, showing only the procryptic, leaf-
like undersides, but when sunning themselves the wings are
held wide open and the beauty of the iridescent blues and
purples has to be seen to be believed. They are very easily
disturbed and the slightest movement will send them darting
off into the undergrowth. The power of detecting moving
objects is highly developed, more in this group of Nymphalids
than any other.

I have waited sometimes for more than half an hour at a
time watching a single insect until it came within reach; the
slightest forward movement would scare it away. The females
are much easier to capture as they fly more slowly, just above
the undergrowth, intent on finding their respective food-plants.
—T.H.E.J.)

DIESTOGYNA RIBENSIS, Ward. PI. 4, figs. 1-6.

Expanse: Male, 25-28 mm.; dwarf specimens common,
measuring from 18 mm. Female, 28-35 mm. Sexes unlike.

Male: F.-w. Ground colour dark-brown shot with purple
over the greater part of the hind portion; three darker trans-
verse bars in the cell, one wider one beyond cell apex con-
tinuous with and at an angle to a broader dark bar running
from base of 3, sub-base 2, sub-base lb, and just internal to
mid-point la. A basal bar in la and lb. Two sub-marginal
rows of darker spots run from apex to hind angle, and a further
more diffuse bar through mid-point 3 to just outside mid-point
la. Fringe of wing slightly white; tip of apex often white.
Many specimens with a narrow dark bar between second and
third of cell.

H.-w. : Ground colour as fore, paling off at costa. Base
with a dark triangle, followed by a broad dark bar. The sub-

marginal row of spots continued through the hind wing, as also
the mid-bar.

There is a tendency for specimens from the Kakamega area
to be more shot with bluish than purplish.

Female: Ground colour olive-brown. F.-w. : Cell crossed by
double lines of ochreous, the first pair in shape of a U, the
second more parallel, and a further narrow line just beyond
apex; beyond this is a straight narrow bar extending from costa
to vein 3 then carried down at an angle and gradually widening
to a broad bar through 3 to the hind edge. Toward base of
wing is a narrow yellowish line sub-basal in la, lb, and reach-
ing the second double line of the cell. Beyond the broad median
bar are two yellowish lines, the more internal continued up
toward the costa as four white dots, the outer and sub-marginal
bar runs up to just internal of the apex, and outlined externally
by dark areas, often carried out to margin along veins. Extreme
tip of apex white.

H.-w. : Ground colour as fore; a narrow sub-basal yellowish
bar; median bar widest at costa and gradually narrowing to
mid-point on inner edge; this is followed by a narrower yellow-
ish bar contiguous at the costa and passing from 7, toward the
hind angle; beyond this two further yellowish wavy bars, the
outermost narrow and less yellow. Extreme margin slightly
ochreous at veins.

Undersurface, male: General ground colour chocolate-

brown with more orange in areas corresponding to purplish ones
of above; sub-costal half of apex strongly lilac as also interven-
ing paler areas in cell. H.-w. ground colour as fore, with lilac
areas corresponding to purply areas of above.

Undersurface, female: More variable; pattern as above but
yellowish areas not so pronounced owing to more ochreous tone
of ground colour; sub-costal half of apex with greyish or lilac
as also the intervening spaces in cell. H.-w. pattern more or
less as above but yellowish areas less defined, more diffuse and
basal triangle with a lilac dislegnic bar.

Early stages : The eggs are laid either singly or many close
together in bunches on the leaves of Sp. indet. They are
dome shaped, covered with hexagonal facets with transparent
glistening spines arising from each angle of the facets. In sun-
light these eggs attract attention for they sparkle like minute
dew-drops. The colour is pearly when first laid but they turn
greyish as the larva develops inside. The egg stage lasts seven
days. When the young larva emerges it eats the vacated egg
shell. At first translucent green with fine black transparent
hairs projecting laterally, one on each side of each segment
from the second to the penultimate and one short spine mid-

dorsal; at the third instar it becomes less translucent, more
greenish and an orange spot appears on the dorsum of the first
abdominal segment. The lateral processes are seen to have
three short branched hairs curved forward, the three hairs
arising from one side only. The head is ochreous. At each
moult the larva eats its cast skin.

The mature larva is flat, somewhat oval in outline, being
28 mm. by 20 mm. The head is greenish horn covered with fine
black hairs. The body segments carry feathery lateral projec-
tions on each segment from the second to penultimate. The
two from the second thoracic segment point directly forward
and cover the head, while the remainder with the exception of
the last are directed outward; the last is directed backward.
Each feathery projection consists of a central stem, black save
for the base which is yellow, and from the stem there are
shorter yellow hairs. At the base of each lateral spine is a
tuft of fine yellow hairs giving the larva a generally yellow
appearance. The first abdominal segment has now a crimson
spot. When resting the larva selects the line of the mid-rib of
the leaf, and is not at all conspicuous.

The pupa is spindle shaped, bright canary yellow with
veinmgs of darker yellow anteriorly and on the wing scutae
and a darker line along the dorsum of the abdomen. The head
has two parallel and contiguous projections. The abdominal
spiracles are often orange. As in Aterica galene the larva
pupates at the end of the mid -rib of a leaf from which the
lateral portions have been eaten; or sometimes from the tip of
a fine twig. The tip is spun over and prepared with a secretion,
yellowish in colour, which acts as a deterrent to predatory ants.
As in Aterica, the larvae hang from this silken pad and bring the
lateral feathery spines forward over the ventral surface.

Distribution: This species is found in the deep shady
forests and are undoubtedly seasonal. On an average, the
months of June and July are the best, but emergence is regu-
lated by the climatic conditions prevailing. We have noted that
the species is more addicted to the moist areas of forest rather
than the outskirts and are to be found in the deeper glades and
depressions where vegetation is rank. It has been recorded
from forests throughout Uganda and extends east to N. Elgon
and to Nandi (F. Jackson) and S. Kavirondo — Kisii (v. S. and
W.F.). As already noted, there is a slight differentiation
between western and Kakamega specimens, but not sufficiently
constant to warrant separation.

The flight is that common to most of the group, a series of
rapid wing beats and gliding. There is a close resemblance
between females of the species and females of Cynandra opis ,

and into this mimetic association comes Catuna crithea, and
certain female Eury phene.

D1ESTOGYNA OBSOLETA, Grunb. PL 5, figs. 1-2; 5-6.

—D. amaranta, Karsch. Syn. 9.

—integribasis, Hulst.

Expanse, males: 25-27 mm. Females: 30 mm. Sexes

unlike.

Male: F.-w. ground colour brown-black with dark purply-
blue reflections. Dark markings rather obscured as follows:
Cell with dark base followed by two broad bars, with a third
just beyond cell; the second and third bar continued to the base of
la, lb, the latter by dark bar sub-basal in la, lb. The bar beyond
the cell is continued through the mid-point of la, lb, and 2. Two
other dark bars of rounded spots are present, the inner starting
from just internal to the hind angle runs from la to 4 and is
continued up towards the costa as three to four white spots; the
outer series is submarginal; wing fringe white, tip of apex
narrowly white.

H.-w. : Brown-black, more brown toward costa, with strong
dark blue reflections more intense toward anal angle, darker
spotting in bar formation diffuse; base of wing dark, followed
by three more or less parallel series of spots, the inner two
large, the outer smaller and submarginal. Wing fringe pale,
but not white except at end of each vein.

Undersurface: F.-w. ground colour ochreous grey shaded
with orange and rufous more particularly as a patch along the
outer edge. The dark bars above are reproduced below as
brownish bars with pale edges. H.-w. generally more rusty
rufous with a yellowish bar crossing from the base of 7, through
the cell and sub-base in lc. A second row of yellowish spots
runs from mid-point 7 to just above mid-point in inner edge;
there is a submarginal row of blackish angles and internal to
this a series of yellowish dots outlined in blackish, and black
shading internally.

Female: Ground colour olive-bi'ownish, with darker olive
brown between the ochreous yellow bars. Bars as follows: two
double line bars in the cell, one just beyond; from the upper
line of the second bar, a yellowish line passing from root of
vein 2 to sub-basal in la; a further line starts below the costa
passing cellule 6, 5, 3 sub-basal then is much angled in 2, set
more internal in la and lb, at mid-point. The distal half of
the wing has a double row of yellowish lines in the form of
contiguous circles in areas lb, 2, 3, 4; in 5-7 the marks break
up into discreet spots, the internal ones white. Fringe of wing
with white spots at ends of veins; upper tip of apex white.

H.-w. : Ground colour olive-brown, the basal triangle with
a diffuse narrow yellowish bar; a wide yellowish bar starts
below the costa at mid-point, widens out rapidly to fill the
greater part of areas 4-7, tapering off rapidly as it crosses the
bases of 3, 2, and lc, and does not reach the inner fold. From
the mid-point of cellule 4 a series of contiguous crescentic marks
reach the anal angle; beyond this a wavy line starts at 5 and
curves toward the anal angle, accentuated on the outer edge by
dark olive.

Undersurface: Ground colour ochreous to naples-yellow;
bases of fore and hind-wings with lilac-grey patches crossed by
indistinct ochreous lines, those of the cell above reproduced
below. Beyond the lilac area in the fore-wing and just below
the costa a series of fine wavy parallel lilac lines forming a
triangle; distal third of wing shaded with rufous in which there
is a sub-marginal series of blackish angular marks. The hind
wing has two parallel series of diffuse lilac angular marks while
the outer border is rufescent tinged.

Early stages: These are unknown to me.

Distribution: Occurs in the forested areas of Uganda in
the more moist and dense parts. It is not as plentiful as others
of this genus. I have not found it east of Entebbe, except in
the Mabira forest. Reference has already been made to the
similarity between females of this species and others already
dealt with. The more transverse direction of the yellowish bar
of the hind-wing helps to distinguish it in the field, as also does
the more angled mid-bar of the fore-wing. Little is known of
its general habits. [Commonest in E. Uganda, round Kampala.
— T.H.E.J.]

DIESTOGYNA PALLIDIOR , Hulst. PI. 5, figs. 3-4; 7-8.

= umbrina , Talbot, nec. Auriv.

Expanse: Male, 50 mm.; length of fore-wing, 29-30 mm.

Male: General ground colour fuscus-brown with a strong
purple bloom. Fore-wing strongly purple at the basal area, less
so marginally; cell crossed by a double dark bar with paler out-
lines. There is an indistinct, curved pale bar which, starting
at the costa just beyond the mid-point runs through the disc of
the wing to the mid-point on the hind-margin; the outer margin
is shaded darker than the ground colour. Beyond this are two
rows of dark spots, one sub-marginal, the other more internal
and more or less parallel to the outer margin of the wing.

Hind-wing: More brownish along the costa, and strongly
purple over the inner half. The disc of the wing is crossed by

diffuse dark contiguous spots and beyond by two further rows,
one sub-marginal, the other running parallel and more internal.

Underside: Fore-wing ochreous, more brownish basally;
cell with the usual bars. Beyond the dark basal area the
ground colour pales to a more yellowish zone corresponding to
the pale bar above. The double row of spots above are repre-
sented by black dots.

Hind- wing ochreous with a darker base, distally with a
zigzag outline most angled at vein 3. The internal of the two
rows of spots above are here represented by blackish dots proxi-
mally shaded with ochreous, distally with a darkening of the
ground whilst the submarginal row is represented by a series
of dusky loops. The cell contains a pale spot outlined with
blackish. There is a dark diffuse spot beyond the apex of cell
in area 4.

Female: Fore-wing: Dusky ochreous-brown; cell with

double bar and basal spot outlined with ochreous. A well-
marked creamy bar, tinged with ochreous distally, crosses the
wing from the costa at the angle between vein 6 and the costa,
and is more or less parallel sided, about 3 mm. wide then
decreases in width in area 3 and tapers out and is slightly curved
inward in 2. There is a large pale patch in lb. There are four
sub-apical white dots set in a curve in 4-7 ; beyond these are
diffuse blackish spots which extend back through 3-lb. This
is followed by a more distinct series of sub-marginal blackish
spots from the hind-angle to the apex.

Hind- wing: Dusky ochreous-brown with the basal area
darker and defined distally; a post-discal rowT of large diffuse
dark brownish spots curve through the wing from the costa to
just above the hind-angle, whilst beyond this there is a series
of dark loops; internal to both these rows there are ochreous
bars which set off the lines. The wing fringe is ochreous.

Underside: Ochreous more so on the hind margin of the
fore-wing, the rest dusted over with greyish especially toward
the upper half of the apical triangle. The lines of the cell are
apparent whilst the fore-wing bar is distinct and yellowish
tinged anteriorly. The white sub-apical dots of above are
distinctly reproduced below. Sub-marginally there is a row
of faint dark dots. Hind- wing: basal area dark ochreous
brown with a dentate outer margin; the cell with a dark ring
outlined by a paler zone. There is a diffuse greyish spot
beyond the cell in 4, shading to brownish distally. The post-
discal row of large diffuse greyish ochreous spots carry a small
ochreous dot outlined with darker brownish at their proximal
point and are outlined with paler ochreous; the sub-marginal
row of crescentic lines of above are here represented by diffuse

lines. The outer margin of the wing is shaded with brownish
while the fringe is ochreous.

Early stages: Unknown.

Distribution: South-western Uganda in the Katera Forest;
taken by T. H. E. Jackson.

DIESTOGYNA CHALYBEATA , Talbot. PL 6, figs. 2 and 7.

PI. 7, figs. 3 and 4.

As I have no examples of the males of this species I quote
the original description published in Trans. Ent. Soc., Vol. 86,
pt. 4, pp. 70-71.

“ The upperside colouration resembles simplex , Stgr., or
saphirina, Karsch. Underside markings somewhat as in

obsoleta, Grunb., especially the hind wings. The vestiture on
the inner area of the hind-wing is posteriorly developed to form
a tuft.

“ Male: Upperside: dark leaden blue with a greenish tinge
on the fore-wing; markings indistinct. Fore-wing with the
usual cell mark. The post-discal line is only visible as far as
vein 2, and from vein 5 to vein 2 is almost straight or at right
angles to the inner margin. The submarginal band of dark
spots is narrower than in obsoleta, and wider than in saphirina.
As in the latter species, there are no subapical white dots, and
the apex; and outer border are blackish for about 3 mm.,
narrowing to the tornus below vein 2. Hind-wing with pale
smoky-brown costal area as in obsoleta, and reaching vein 4 as
in that species; similarly the anterior part of the two sub-
marginal lines of blackish spots is distinct on the pale apical
area, though less defined than in obsoleta. The fringe of black-
ish hair along vein lb is strongly developed, but stops at about
7 mm. from the margin and forms a pronounced tuft which
reaches to within 5 mm. of the margin; the hair forming this
tuft rises chiefly from the fold in lc, and no hair rises above the
fold as is the case in the two allied species where it covers most
of the area. Underside chestnut-brown strongly irrorated or
freckled with smoky-brown. Basal area dark smoky-brown
with indistinct cell-marks. Discal line as in obsoleta, of the
same curvature and outline. Distal apical and costal area to
vein 4 dusted with bluish-white. Posterior area pale smoky-
brown. The two dark sub-marginal bands as on the upperside
and not distinct; proximally to the inner band are four bluish-
white dots in areas 4, 5, 6, and 8. Hind-wing ground-colour
deep chestnut with darker basal area. A rounded and con-
spicuous pale buff spot near base of area 7, and a similar but
somewhat square or oblong spot in lc on the edge of the dark
basal area; similar pale spots, though less defined, are found in
obsoleta .

Plate 5

Diestogyna obsoleta, Grunb.
Figs. 1 & 5, male, upper and
under surfaces.

Figs. 2 & 6, female, upper and
under surfaces.

Diestogyna pallidior, Hulst.
Figs. 4 & 8, male, upper and
under surfaces.

Figs. 3 & 7, female, upper and
under surfaces.

Figs. 1 & 6, Diestogyna butleri; upper and underside, female.

Figs. 2 & 7, Diestogyna chalybeata, Talbot; upper and underside, male.

Figs. 3 & 8, Diestogyna jacksoni, Talbot; upper and underside, male.

Figs. 4 & 9, Diestogyna theodota; upper and underside, male.

Figs. 5 & 10, Diestogyna gambiae, Feisth; upper and underside, male.

X ^nlE U

Plate 7

Diestogyna theodo'ta. Figs. 1 & 2, upper and under surfaces, female.

Diestogyna chalybeata, Talbot. Figs. 3 & 4, upper and under surfaces, female.

Plate 8

Diestogyna jacksoni, Talbot. Figs. 1 & 2, upper and under surfaces, female.
Diestogyna atossa , Hewit, Figs. 3 & 4, upper and under surfaces, female.

“ The basal area is bordered diffusely with deep chestnut,
and there is a post-discal band of similar colour, broken up into
spots, each spot with an indistinct white dot upon its proximal
edge. The distal area irrorated with smoky-brown, and bear-
ing an indistinct blackish waved submarginal line. Fringe of
fore-wing white, blackish at veins; of the hind-wing black.
Abdomen with grey ventral surface; in obsoleta it is ochraceous.

“Female: Resembles somewhat atropurpurea, Auriv., on

upperside, and amaranta , Ksch., on the underside. Upperside
of fore-wing dull ochreous in basal area as in atropurpurea , with
the three dark cell-patches sharply outlined with ochreous; the
patch across the end of the cell is larger than in the two species
mentioned. The pale patch lying between vein 2 and inner
margin is large in the type and in specimen 2; in specimen 3 it
is as in atropurpurea, and in specimen 4 it is represented by a
curved buff -coloured mark in lb. The dark angled line edging
the inner side of this patch is much the same as in atropurpurea.
It may be mentioned here that this submedian patch is absent in
amaranta. The white band is quite the same as in atropurpurea
and the usual four white apical spots are present. Hind-wing
closely resembles atropurpurea in markings.

“ The discal line, which edges the dark basal area, is slightly
curved and fairly even. The post-discal blackish patches, more
distinctly developed than in atropurpurea, very large in speci-
men 4 where also the second post-discal row of dark patches is
more developed; in the other specimens these patches, as well
as the submarginal sagittate line, are as in atropurpurea. Under-
side more as in karschi and amaranta. Fore-wing with cell-
marks and whitish-dusted apical area as in the male. An
indistinct ochreous submarginal band about 3 mm. wide from
costa to vein 4, the white dots, as above, on its inner edge. The
pale submedian patch reproduced but less distinct than above.
Hind-wing basal area blackish-brown irrorated with pale buff
to a variable extent. The irregularities along the edge of the
basal area, including the tooth on vein 2, are just as in the male.
There is a pale ochreous spot near the base of area 7 as in the
male, and from this, to the margin near the base, is a curved
blackish band, constricted slightly in the cell, and including
the dark rounded cell-spot. Distal area pale ochreous, more or
less strongly freckled with chestnut. The post-discal blackish
spots as on the upperside; indistinct in the type and in specimen
2 but very distinct in the other two examples; in allied forms
these spots are either small triangles or mere dots. A waved
dark submarginal line as in karschi but still heavier; the space
between this line and the margin more or less irrorated with
blackish. Fringe of both wings black. Length of fore-wing:
male, 27-30 m.m; female, 32-33 mm.”

Early stages: Unknown.

Distribution: The south-western area of Uganda, Mala-
bigambo Forest, Katera, with an extension into Eastern Congo.
The species has been taken by T. H. E. Jackson, who secured
the type and other examples.

D1ESTOGYNA JACKSONI , Talbot. PI. 6, figs. 3 and 8.

PL 8. figs. 1 and 2.

This is another recently described species, and as only a
single female is available to me, I quote the original descrip-
tion. Trans. Ent. Soc., Vol. 86, pt. 4, pp. 69-70.

“ Allied to feronia, Stgr., also in some respects to an un-
named species in the British Museum from the Cameroons, and
in its underside pattern to simplex , Stgr.

“Male: Upper side, deep blue, but not so bright as in
feronia , the median area of fore-wing and the hind-wing
purplish. Fore-wing cell-marks as usual in the genus; the dark
oval spots are edged on the outsides with violet-blue in the type,
with purple in the Uganda specimen, showing as four violet-
blue bars, the basal one indistinct, the outer one strongly
marked over the cross-veins. A similarly coloured and heavier
post-cellular line, slightly curved from costa to vein 2, but in-
distinct below vein 3; in the Uganda specimen this line is alto-
gether less distinct. Four white sub-apical dots as in feronia,
with a violet-blue dot in area 3 placed below the one in 4, a
similar but larger and more obscure dot in area 2 placed a little
distal of the one in 3,; and a similar but small dot below vein 2
placed in line with the one in area 3. This line of dots is
absent in the Uganda specimen, though there are indistinct
traces of it. A submarginal series of semi-crescentic black spots
similar to those in feronia but a little larger; between these spots
and the post-discal line of dots is a line of somewhat square-
shaped black spots each with an indistinct outer violet edging,
not apparent in the Uganda specimen. Hind-wing with costal
area fuscus-brown to vein 6; in feronia it extends to vein 4. A
thin black very slightly curved discal line from vein 2 to vein
6, crossing area 2 near its base. A heavy black waved sub-
marginal line from vein 2 to vein 6, less marked and more even
in the Uganda specimen. Between the discal and submarginal
lines are two indistinct blackish post-discal bands of spots, the
inner one broader than the outer; in the Uganda specimen only
the outer line is distinct, and the spots forming it are short bars.
The outer marginal border is fuscus-brown and less suffused with
purple.

“ Underside rufous-brown, resembling simplex in colour
and markings, and not feronia; the type specimen more

ochreous. Fore-wing cell-marks as in allied species. Post-
discal line with the part below vein 4 nearly even and straight,
directed more distad than in simplex or feronia ; it is bordered
outwardly with paler brown, somewhat as in simplex. A post-
discal row of white dots, representing the line on the upperside,
much less distinct in the Uganda specimen. Mid-way between
these dots and the margin is a deep brown submarginal line
marked with ochreous along its inner edge. In the space
between the two lines mentioned there are grey-black patches
in lb, 2, and 3. Hind-wing basal area only a little darker than
the distal area. Cell-spot not blackened. Discal line more
curved than in simplex, and passing farther from the point of
origin of veins 3 and 4 than it does in that species; this line is
narrowly edged outwardly with white. A post-discal row of
white dots, and a submarginal line as in other species.

“ Female: Not resembling simplex or feronia but strongly
suggestive of amaranta, Krsch., or atrovireus, Mab., female.
Upperside: Fore-wing with the rufous-brown area extending
beyond the cell and into the base of area 3, with its edge sharply
defined. A band of five white spots as in other species, but not
compact as in simplex or feronia; the three anterior spots are
separated by the veins and wider than in amaranta; the third
spot in 4 has a characteristic proximal projection in the upper
part of the cellule, and there is a similar projection to the large
and somewhat rounded spot in 2, whilst a more obvious projec-
tion is seen on the lower and smaller curved spot. Four white
subapical dots as in the allied species. Hind-wing differing
essentially from similar females of other species in its blackish-
brown marginal border which almost touches the black and
slightly waved submarginal line. Discal black line thin and
sharply defined. A thin black divided post-discal streak in
each of the areas 2-5. Underside: Colouration and hind-wing
markings as in the male. Fore-wing with ground colour as in
the hind-wing, paler below the cell, and with a diffuse blackish
patch in areas 2 and 3 over the area in which are placed the two
white dots. Hind-wing a little paler than in the male. Discal
line indistinctly edged with white, and the tooth on vein 2
larger. Fringes in both sexes black, in the male with a white
dot at apex of the fore-wing.

“ Length of fore-wing: Male, 30 mm. (type), 29 mm. Uganda
specimen; female, 35 mm.”

Early stages: Unknown.

Distribution : Occurs in the south-western portion of

Uganda in the Malabigambo Forest, Katera, where T. H. E.
Jackson obtained specimens. It extends into the eastern
Belgian Congo.

D1EST0GYNA SAPHIRINA, Karsch. PL 9, figs. 1-6.

= D. hobleyi , Neave. Syn. 9.

Expanse: Males, 23-25 mm.; females, 28-33 mm. Sexes
unlike.

Male: F.-w. brown-black with dark blue reflections. Cell
with lighter blue cross bars, one sub-basal, followed by two
parallel near apex; one just beyond and a further ill-defined line
crossing the sub-base of 6-5-4 is lost in 3. There is sometimes
an indication of a further submarginal bar. Between the bars
slight darkening of the scales to form diffuse spots. Apex white
tipped.

H.-w. : Black-brown in ground colour, more strongly bluish
toward hind angle. Four rows of more or less parallel dark
spots cross the disc of the wing, the innermost crosses through
the apex of the cell, the outer one sub-marginal.

Undersurface : Brownish with shading of rufous more

toward the outer side of the fore-wing and over the hind-wing.
Barring of the cell slightly indicated, but the line beyond the
cell is more defined and whitish-ochreous and extends from the
costa sub-basal in 7 through sub-bases of 6-4, then at about
mid-point in la, lb, where it fades out. There is also a sub-
marginal row of small black dots and angles, internal to this a
further row of black spots sometimes whitish proximally. The
hind-wing has a black diffuse spot just beyond the cell which is
sometimes carried on above and below as a diffuse dark line to
the costa on the one side and toward but not reaching the inner
fold on the other side. There is a series of sub-marginal dark
angular spots and internal to this a series of fine whitish dots
darkened distally.

Female : Ground colour olive-brown with darkening be-
tween the naples to ochreous lines. The cell is crossed by
narrow lines, a circle toward the sub-base, followed by two lines,
the upper one continuous with a line crossing the base of 2,
and sub-base of lb; beyond the cell a straight light line, followed
by a transverse sub-apical yellow bar, which varies in width,
extending from the sub-costa in 6 toward the hind angle but
ending in a somewhat crescentic mark in 2. The mid-point of
la and lb with a light bar proximally edged with darker olive.

A series of white dots in a curve through 7-4 and distal to
this a sub-marginal row of dark spots — proximally shaded with
lighter olive — follows the contour of the wing.

H.-w. : Olive-brown, with a broad yellowish bar from a
point on the mid-costa fills the proximal half of cellules 6-3 and
fades out toward the inner margin; sub-distal edge of the band
with olive dots, often triangular in shape in cellules 6-1 c and

the distal edge accentuated by a dark wavy line. The marginal
border of the wing often with pale veins and darker intervening
areas.

Undersurface: Variable, as to amount of purply-brown

flush. F.-w. ground colour brownish-olive darkening toward
distal half and outer margin of wing flushed with rusty to
chestnut. Marks of above reproduced below as whitish lines
and bars.

H.-w.: Basal area grey brown with a lilac line; yellowish
bar of above only slightly indicated below in 6-4, but distally
indicated by a series of ovals dark inside and white dotted
proximally with a dark angular spot distally.

Early stages: Unknown to me.

Distribution: Distributed through the forests of Uganda
and extending to the Elgon-Nandi districts and patches of forest
in South Kavirondo, Kisii, to Chepalunga.

The female described as hobleyi by Neave is now considered
a synonym of Saphirina, and probably synonymous with albo -
punctata , Auriv. Females of this species are somewhat
variable, more especially as regards the oblique bar of the fore-
wing. This species is found only in forest country.

DIESTOGYNA GAMBIAE , Feisth, PL 6, figs. 5 and 10.

This species is included on the evidence of one specimen
taken by the late Sir Frederick Jackson, and said to have come
from Uganda (labelled merely “ East Africa ”). As we have no
specimens, Mr. Talbot has very kindly supplied the following
description :

Male: Upperside with blackish-brown ground colour, and
dark ochraceous markings, sometimes suffused. Fore-wing
with prominent spot in middle of cell, outlined with ochraceous;
two discal ochraceous lines forming a U-shaped spot enclosing
the discocellulars; a sub-basal, or median, short line from origin
of vein 2 to inner margin; a discal, irregular, short line, from
vein 4, where it connects with outer edge of U-shaped spot, to
vein 2; a post-discal, irregular line from costa to inner margin,
its anterior part, to vein 4, much thinner than its lower part
which projects proximad below vein 2; a second and similar
post-discal line, its anterior part formed of three dots in areas
4-6; a submarginal line, divided by the dark veins, and obsolete
above vein 5. Cilia white, alternated with black at the veins.
Hind-wing with a prominent discal ochraceous line, from vein
2-7 more or less diffused distad; cell more or less dusted ochra-
ceous; discocellular spot conspicuous, and centred with ochra-
ceous; a post-discal series of small black spots, darker than the
ground-colour, the proximal ochraceous edgings to these spots

forming a lunula te line in dark specimens; a submarginal black
line, edged ochraceous on its inner side.

Underside: Fore-wing with posterior area from vein 4, and
including lower margin of cell ochraceous-yellow; anterior area
deep chocolate-brown, more or less dusted white; markings as
above, pinkish-brown. Hind-wing with an anterior area of
very deep chocolate-brown, comprising the whole of areas 7-8,
the basal area including base of cell, the basal parts of areas
5 and 6, and extending along outer margin to vein 3; a median
bar of the same colour, from below vein la to origin of vein 2;
posterior area of wing more or less pinkish-brown, dusted with
cream, more deeply coloured in the post-discal area; post-discal
spots of upperside represented by black dots; the pale area
extends to the margin below vein 3.

Female: Markings similar to those of the male, but pale
yellow to white. Hind-wing with a prominent, broad, yellow
or rarely white cross-band, its distal edge, between veins 5 and
7, broad, the band narrowing sharply below vein 5 to almost a
point in area lc; the upper edge of this band is sharply defined
and irregular, the lower edge diffuse and more even; the outer
half of the cell and posterior area of wing slightly washed with
ochraceous; post-discal and submarginal lunulate yellowish
lines. Underside as in the male, but pale areas are pale buff
or creamy-white.

Distribution: Uncertain, so far as Uganda is concerned.
Vide opening remarks.

D1ESTOGYNA BUTLERI , Auriv. PI. 6, figs. 1 and 6.

(= female of amaranta , Karsch., as described by Butler.)

The male appears to be unknown. We are indebted to Mr.
Talbot for a description of the female.

Female: Upperside ground colour umber-brown, with pale
ochraceous markings; fore-wing with the usual Diestogyna
basal marks, but rather faint; a post-discal, rather prominent
band from vein 9 to inner margin, curved strongly outwards,
wider between veins 2 and 4, its inner edge crenulate and
sharply defined, its outer edge diffuse and more even; two sub-
marginal, somewhat crenulate and nearly parallel lines; the
inner of the two submarginal lines has its anterior part, in areas
4-6 formed of white dots.

Hind-wing with a discal narrow band, narrowing posteriorly
to vein la, and from vein 7 curved sharply inward to costa; a
post-discal and still narrower band, its outer edge lunulate; a
somewhat uneven submarginal line; a second, much thinner and
duller, submarginal line defining an outer border, slightly paler
than the ground-colour.

Underside of fore-wing with proximal area pale umber-
brown, limited by post-discal band as above; submarginal mark-
ings less distinct than above. Hind-wing with ground-colour
paler than above; a sub-basal, narrow, whitish band; a discal
band as above, but pinkish-white, and outwardly diffuse; sub-
marginal markings as above, but pinkish-white.

Antennae dark reddish-brown; palpi pale reddish-brown
touched with white at base and on inside. Head, thorax, and
abdomen umber-brown; thorax and abdomen grey beneath.

Early stages: Unknown to me.

Distribution: Has been taken in the Toro district of
Uganda (B.M. Coll.), but is evidently very rare. Is not repre-
sented in our collections.

D1ESTOGYNA THEODOTA, Hulst. PL 6, figs. 4 and 9.

(= cyriaca, Hulst.; trioculata, J. & T.). PL 7, figs. 1 and 2.

Mr. Talbot supplies the following description; it is not
represented in our collections.

A sombre species, closely allied to tadema, Hew.

Male: Upperside ground-colour paler than in tadema or

saphirina, being a smoky-brown with faint violet tinge; mark-
ings pale, more or less slightly violaceous, and often rather
obscure. Fore- wing with the usual cell marks and sub-basal
line; a post-discal line as in the allied species, its anterior part,
to vein 4, at right angles to the costa, its posterior part distinct
to vein lb, straighter and more even and more distinct than in
allied species; two submarginal lines as is usual; the proximal
area to post-discal line, darker than distal area. Hind- wing with
the usual pale costal area and distal area, to discal band, also
pale; pale discal line straighter than in tadema more as in
saphirina; post-discal dark spots, and heavy submarginal dark
line as in allied species.

Underside : Ground-colour pale reddish-brown to dark

reddish-brown; general colouring very similar to that in
saphirina and incerta, Auriv., being unlike tadema. Markings
exactly as in the two former species.

Female: Only determined by analogy as belonging here.
Very similar to tadema female. Upperside dull ochraceous-
brown. Fore-wing with apical half smoky-brown; a sub-
marginal white band as in tadema. Hind-wing as in tadema; a
discal dark line; a post-discal series of blackish, more or less
triangular spots, outwardly edged with paler ochraceous; a sub-
marginal series of blackish spots or bars, separated by the veins,
and placed nearer to the post-discal series than to the margin
(in tadema the spots of the sub-marginal series are usually

sagittate or more or less curved). Underside as in the male,
except for the white band on fore-wing.

Early stages: Unknown.

Distribution: Western Uganda, but exact area not known.

DIESTOGYNA ATOSSA, Hew. PL 8, figs. 3 and 4.

This species is represented in our collections by a female
taken by Carpenter (Bwamba Valley). The male is unrepre-
sented, and we are indebted to Mr. Talbot for the description of
that sex.

Male: Upperside chiefly reddish-brown. Fore-wing with
proximal half reddish-brown, distal half black; a post-discal
ochraceous band, formed of five spots separated by the veins,
the two lower spots, in areas 2 and 3 much larger than the others;
four sub-apical white dots, in a curved row above vein 4; a sub-
marginal ochraceous line from vein lb to 5 or 6.

Hind-wing with costal area to vein 7 smoky-brown; an
outer smoky-brown border, limited by a submarginal line of
small black spots or bars, between which and a post-discal
series, is a series of ochraceous spots that bear the submarginal
ones; post-discal spots black, triangular, their apices directed
inwards.

Underside of fore- wing with posterior ochraceous area, and
anterior area deep chocolate-brown broken by pinkish-white
cell-bars; post-discal band and sub-marginal line as above; some
apical white suffusion. Hind-wing largely reddish-brown,
darker than above, and costally deep chocolate; a prominent
broad pinkish-white stripe, from base of costa, through areas
7-6 to outer margin; a discal whitish line, angled at lower edge
of cell; a post-discal line, produced strongly outwards in area 2,
darker brown, edged outwardly with dull white; the area
between the discal and post-discal lines is darker than the area
between the latter and a submarginal row of blackish triangular
spots; a submarginal pinkish-white prominent line, limiting the
dark brown outer border which reaches vein 3; anal area more
or less grey-white.

Female : This sex is present in our collections and is

described as follows:

Upperside: Fore-wing basal half dark orange-brown, distal
half black with an extension round the hind angle in the distal
portion of la and lb; just here and more internal, the orange is
dusted with whitish scales; cell with faint transverse bars
toward apex. There is a prominent series of post-discal white
spots, small in areas 4-6 and larger in 3 and somewhat arrow-
shaped in 2. Three sub-apical white dots set in a curve are
present in 5-7, while the apex is also white. Hind-wing mostly

orange-brown, more smoky along the costa and margin; edge of
area 7 white; close to the marginal border are ill-defined dark
lunulate marks and internal to this series is a further sub-
marginal row of angled marks apices directed inward.

Underside : Basal area dull orange paling distally in la and
lb; cell crossed by three bars with pinkish- white between; distal
portion of wing chocolate brown with the post-discal row of
white spots clearly defined, and the sub-apical series also pre-
sent, but in addition there is a sub-marginal series of whitish
pink marks; apex white. Hind-wing as in the male but not so
boldly marked.

Early stages: Unknown.

Distribution: Western Uganda, Bwamba Valley; primary
forest, 3,000 feet. July, 1921.

EURYPHENE.

General Notes on the Group.

[The great majority of species of this genus are forest
insects, but unlike others of this group they are often seen in
the openings and clearings. The males are more in evidence
than the females for they like to sit in strong sunlight or to
chase each other rapidly along paths. I have many times seen
males of Eu. absolon fighting for a favoured position, beating
each other with their wings so that the sound is audible some
distance away. Both sexes are attracted to fallen fermenting
fruits, and those of a fig tree will collect the Euryphene popula-
tion for many yards around. Like the Diestogyna, they feed
with closed wings and because of the procryptic colouration, one
can almost tread on them before noticing the presence of a fig
or other fruiting tree. — T.H.E.J.]

EURYPHENE ABSOLON ENTEBBIAE , Lathy.

PI. 10a, figs. 1 and 2. PI. 11, figs. 1 and 2.

Expanse: Male, 55-56 mm.; female, 60-64 mm. Sexes unlike.

Male: Upperside: General ground-colour orange-tawny

with dark bars. Fore-wing: Orange tawny, slightly paler than
hind-wing. Cell with dark wavy lines, the two basal irregu-
larly crescentic, followed by a “ B ” or 8 shaped mark about the
centre, then by a wavy bar, and at the apex of the cell a large
oval mark with pale centre. Below the cell is a long dark line
at the base of lb. An almost straight broad bar passes from
the hind margin sub-basal in la and lb then through the base
of 2 and 3, at right angles to the apical bar of the cell and joins
a broad bar beyond the cell. Two other bars composed of
contiguous rounded dark spots cross the wing from hind-margin

to costa; the margin of the wing is broadly dark black-brown
while the fringe is ochreous. Costa tinged olive.

Hind-wing: Ground colour tawny-orange. Cell with two
dark rings centrally and a dark bar apically, this last in contact
with a bar which passes through the sub-base of lc, the base of
2 and 4, and sub-base of 5 and 6; costa dusky; two more or less
parallel rows of diffuse, round, large spots cross the wing, the
inner one more diffuse and broader than the outer, neither
reaching the inner fold. Beyond these is a wavy sub-marginal
line from the anal angle to the upper angle; the margin of the
wing is dusky, but the fringe is ochreous.

Underside: F.-w. : Ground-colour greyish-ochreous. The
dark markings of above are faintly represented by more brown-
ish diffuse bars, the brown colour being most marked as a line
from the mid-point of the hind-margin to just below the apex.
The sub-marginal row of spots of the upper side is represented
by small black dots. Margin of wing brownish. H.-w. : Ground
colour as fore-wing, basal area more brownish with an irregular
outer margin; cell with two, sometimes three dark rings. A
diffuse brownish bar crosses the wing from mid-costa to the anal
angle. The outer row of spots above here represented as black
dots and the sub-marginal wavy line as a narrow dark line with
dots at the angles on each vein. Outer border of wing tinged
brownish.

Female: Ground colour olive-ochreous to cream with dark
bars. F.-w.: Costa olive; markings as in the male but more
brownish-olive, the outer margins of the dark spots being
accentuated by creamy irregular bars. H.-w. with a large
triangular yellowish to creamy patch base toward upper angle
and apex toward inner fold; base of wing olive-greyish with
dark spots as in the male. Costa dusky olive-grey^, this colour
being carried round the marginal border. Internal to this is a
wavy submarginal line accentuated internally by a pale ochreous
zone. The double row of diffuse dark spots present in the male
is here cut short, the inner row being limited to three large and
one very small spot proximally in an almost straight line; the
outer row ending submarginally in 5.

Underside: Ground colour ochreous grey. F.-w. marks not
very clearly defined except those in the cell; the post-discal row
of spots here represented as dots. H.-w.: Ground colour as

fore- wing, the ochreous triangular patch of above only diffusely
indicated but set off by a brownish irregular bar sub-basal in
5 and 6. Cell with three black-brown rings set in a triangle.
There is a post-discal row of small dark dots and the sub-
marginal wavy line is faintly indicated.

Early stages: Unknown.

Distribution: A common species throughout the forests of
Uganda keeping to the undergrowth, and most conspicuous in
the clearings and along pathways especially where fallen fruits
are to be found. The flight is gliding and the insects keep low
to the ground.

[There is much Mullerian mimicry in this group of Eury-
phene centred round Eu. absolon as the dominant member.
Four other species all less common are closely similar: laeti -
toides, brunhilda, oxione squalida, and tentyris. — T.H.E.J.]

EURYPHENE TENTYRIS, Hew. (the nominotypical Western
subspecies).

Male: Upperside ground-colour blackish-brown, the mark-
ings ochraceous-brown. Fore-wing with anterior area shot with
dark purplish-blue, extending usually to vein 2, the markings in
this area dull green. This bluish area is absent from Uganda
specimens; in these all the markings are ochraceous-browri, and
there is a slight purple sheen over both wings in some specimens.
A submarginal contiguous series of six round spots, defined by
an ochraceous ring, and decreasing in size anteriorly; a post-
discal, slightly irregular line, its anterior part, above vein 4,
placed more distad, and posteriorly, this line is directed basad;
outside end of cell a bar of variable width, representing the
anterior part of a discal band that reaches the cell at origin of
vein 3.

Hind-wing markings dull ochraceous, the wing sometimes
with very slight purple sheen. A discal narrow band; a post-
discal broader band; a submarginal broad band, narrowing
anteriorly to vein 7, and bearing five small black spots, the
outer edge sharply defined by black, and crenulate. Underside
purplish-brown to grey-brown, the markings darker. Fore-wing
with post-discal thin wavy line from area lc to vein 4, and con-
tinued anteriorly by a line, more distad, from vein 4 to 8, which
has a short projection distad, in areas 4 and 5, and on the distal
side is bordered by a somewhat pale bar of greyish-white, more
or less distinct; a submarginal row of black dots, each touched
with greyish- white on its inner edge; an antemarginal row of
blackish dots.

Hind wing with a subcostal, white, somewhat quadrate
spot, placed in area 7 a little distad of origin of vein 7; this spot
is very prominent, and has a single tooth on its inner edge; thin
post-discal line, from inner margin to vein 4, somewhat sagit-
tate; anterior continuation of this line faint, but excurved, and
marked by two small pale dark-edged spots in areas 4 and 5;
submarginal dark dots as on fore-wing; antemarginal line
strongly crenulate.

Female: Very similar to carshena, Hew. ? on both sides,
but hind wing below without a prominent blackish-brown post-
discal patch as in carshena.

Upperside markings buff-yellow. Fore-wing markings as
in male, but a posterior band from vein 2 to inner margin,
directed basad on margin, where it ends in a point; the inner
edge of this band is formed by the post-discal line, whilst its
outer edge is the inner edging of the submarginal black spots.
This posterior band is narrower than in carshena, and the pos-
terior tornal spot of dark ground-colour is larger than in the
allied species.

Hind-wing with discal broad, buff-yellow band that expands
towards the apex where it touches the dark submarginal line,
which it never does in carshena; a post-discal series of six or
seven rounded spots, their inner and outer edges defined by buff-
yellow; a submarginal, blackish, somewhat crenulate line,
placed well away from the margin.

Underside ground-colour much paler than in male, but
markings similar and well-defined.

This ssp. distributed from Gold Coast and Togoland to
Cameroons, Gaboon, Angola, and Congo.

I am indebted to Mr. Talbot for the above descriptions. The
form found in Western Uganda has much less purply sheen on
the discs of the wings. Such specimens occur in the Semliki
and Bwamba Valley, whereas material from Entebbe and the
Budongo taken in June agree with Cameroon specimens in
regard to the strong purply sheen. There appears to be no
difference between the females from the various areas of its
distribution.

Distribution: Western Uganda, east to Entebbe. The

specimen figured wag taken by T. H. E. Jackson at Kamengo.

EURYPHENE TENTYR1S, Hew. PI. 10, fig. 1.

A single male specimen obtained by T. H. E. Jackson at
Kamengo. Other specimens from Uganda in the B.M. The
following description is based on Jackson’s specimen.

Male: General colour orange-ochraceous with dull grey-
brown markings. Fore-wing ground-colour dull orange-ochra-
ceous; cell with a longitudinal basal mark, followed by a double
mark at about mid-point, outlined in black; a narrow trans-
verse wavy line beyond; apex of cell with irregular dark mark
set transversely; beyond this a further more diffuse dark mark
crossing the sub-base of 4-6; base of la and lb with a dark mark;
followed by a sub-basal bar crossing lb and 2; a post-discal row
of somewhat rounder dark marks extends from mid la up toward
the apex curving slightly in 6 toward the costa; a further sub-

marginal row of decreasing size from la extends up to the sub-
apex; an ad-marginal wavy line extends from the hind-angle and
proximally defines the dark border to the wing.

Hind-wing: Ground-colour as fore but with a slight purply
reflection, duller, more greyish along the costa and inner fold.
Cell with a sub-basal dark mark outlined in black, and 8-shaped;
a band of irregular marks through sub-bases of 6-5 then through
the cell, basal in 2, followed by a discal band from upper angle
to mid-inner fold, and this, by a post-discal series of more or
less triangular marks decreasing in size toward the upper angle;
submarginal wavy line commencing at anal angle gradually ap-
proximates to and then runs parallel to the margin from 4 to the
upper angle.

Underside : Fore- and hind-wing ground-colour pinkish-

brown, more ochraceous along hind edge of fore-wing. Cell
with marks of above represented by black lines; the other series
of dark marks here hardly visible as ill-defined faint bands; the
submarginal series represented as black dots, internal to each is
a creamy streak. Hind-wing with a conspicuous white mark in
7; the other marks very faint and more or less represented by
dark lines; the post-discal, as black dots with ochreous streaks
proximally, the submarginal, as faint lunulate marks.

Early stages: Unknown.

Distribution: The species has been taken in the Semliki
Valley, Bwamba forest, and at Entebbe and the Budongo
Forest. The nominotypical specimens have a strong bluish-
purple sheen over the anterior wings and a more purplish sheen
on the hind wings. The Entebbe specimens have a purplish
sheen on both wings, but some, as in the specimen described,
lack almost all trace of the sheen. There is, however, evidence
that the eastern examples tend to have less purply sheen than
western ones.

No females are available from Uganda.

EURYPHENE CARSHENA, Hew. PI. 10a, figs. 3-5.

PL 11, figs. 3-4.

Expanse: Male, 50 mm.; female, 60-63 mm. Sexes unlike.

Male: General colour dull satin blue-green with obscure
dark marks. F.-w. satin blue-green, inclining to yellow-green
along the costa, but the marginal border dull black. Cell marks
hardly visible, but there is one blackish spot at the apex of the
cell, between veins 5 and 6. There is an indistinct dark bar
beyond the cell, and an obscure mark, sub-apical in 6. The sub-
marginal row of dark spots each surrounded by an extension of
the green ground colour presents a scalloped and distinctive
band.

H.-w.: Ground colour brownish along the front margin
and on inner fold; rest of wing with bluish-green as fore-wing.
There is a large dark spot, sub-basal in 4 and 5; a post-discal
row of spots most distinct in 4 and 5 and represented as lines in
2 and 3, and fading out in 6. There is also a submarginal wavy
line, more distinct at the upper angle but more obscure as it
approaches the hind-angle. Some of the spots of the underside
show through, for the wing has a semi-translucent appearance.

Underside: F.-w. dull ochreous, cell with distinct black-
lined irregular marks; a less distinct black-lined mark crosses
the discal area and beyond this is a rusty, obscure bar which
reaches to the apex of the wing. There is then a series of very
small black submarginal dots followed by an indistinct wavy
line.

H.-w. ground colour as fore-wing; cell with two black dots
and a black ring; the discal area has a dentate black line con-
tinuous with a distinct greyish patch outlined in black, sub-
basal in 5 and 6. A rusty indistinct bar crosses the post-discal
area from the mid-point of the costa to the anal angle. The
post-discal row of black spots are small, mere dots, and the sub-
marginal wavy line is black and fine.

Female: Ground colour olive-brown with yellow-ochre bars
and lines. This sex bears a superficial resemblance to the female
of Eu. absolon entebbiae, but it lacks the dark spots of the mid-
row in areas la and lb, and the dark areas are not clearly de-
marcated by the yellow. In the hind-wing the yellow patch is
not triangular but is in the form of a bar, whilst the two post-
discal dark bands are complete to as far as the inner fold and
are distally edged with yellowish ochre. The details of the
markings are best seen in the figure.

Underside: Ground colour grey-ochre with a diffuse rusty
bar which crosses both wings from the apex of the fore-wing,
through the disc of the hind-wing to just above the anal angle.
The other marks are as in the male but more diffuse with the
exception of the large brownish spot in 5 and 6 (vide plate).

Early stages: Unknown.

Distribution: This is a common species in the forest areas
of Uganda being met with in the open glades and forest paths.
They fly low with a gliding motion, and like others of the group,
are addicted to rotting or fermenting fruits.

[This species prefers the denser parts of the forest where
both sexes enter into a mimetic association with the various
species of Diestogyna. — T.H.E.J.]

EURYPHENE 0X10NE SQUALIDA , Talbot. PI. 10b, figs. 14.

The following description has been supplied by Mr. Talbot.

Male: Upperside with all brown markings dusky; both
wings with a purple sheen in a side-light. Underside much
darker than in the nominotypical sub-species.

Fore-wing with a discal, a post-discal, and two submarginal
lines of dull ochraceous-brown, slightly curved spots, separated
by the veins; ground-colour blackish-brown. Hind-wing with
four lines similar to those of fore- wing, but straighter and more
continuous, and placed at about equal distances apart.

Underside pale reddish-brown. A prominent blackish-
brown stripe, extending obliquely from apex of fore-wing to
inner margin of hind-wing, and is more heavily marked on
hind-wing. Fore-wing with the usual cell marks of the genus;
a post-discal, thin brown line, rather irregular, and oblique; a
sub-marginal row of six black dots, and a submarginal crenu-
late line.

Hind-wing with the inner posterior area somewhat ochra-
ceous; cell with three round small rings, the basal one usually
a dark dot; two short brown waved post-discal lines, from costa
before apex to vein 3; a submarginal row of black dots, and a
waved submarginal line.

Female: Upperside similar to other females of this group.
Ground-colour deep umber-brown with pale yellowish mark-
ings. Fore-wing with four lines as in the male, ochraceous-
yellow, more or less dusted with brown. Hind-wing with
prominent discal pale yellow band, anteriorly broad, and
narrowing strongly to inner margin, its inner edge sharply
defined and slightly crenulate; a pale sub-basal bar crossing the
cell; a pale post-discal heavy line from vein 4-lb and a similarly
coloured sub-marginal heavy line, formed of lunulate marks,
edged outwardly with black.

Underside markings as in the male. Ground-colour very
pale buff. Fore-wing more or less dusted or shaded with
pinkish-brown.

Early stages: Unknown.

Distribution: This species occurs, in my experience, only
in the small forest patches around Kampala and is here ex-
tremely rare. It is an exact mimic of Eu. absolon entebbiae,
and can only be distinguished from below.

EURYPHENE BRUNH1LDA, Kirby. ? subsp. PI. 12, figs. 1 & 2.

PI. 13, figs. 1 & 2.

Expanse: Male, 48 mm.; female, 58 mm. Sexes unlike.

Male: General colour rich tawny-orange with black spots.
F.=w. : Ground-colour rich tawny-orange; markings very much

as in Eu. laetitoides, but more defined, the discal dark marks are
angled in areas 2-5; the second row of post-discal spots more
circular and clear-cut; the admarginal dark border more distinct.
H.-w. rich tawny orange, the discal bar stops at 3; the post-discal
inner row of spots, distinct in 7-4 become indistinct in 2 and 3,
and the same applies to the outer row. The sub-marginal wavy
line is less distinct.

Underside: Ground-colour greyish-tawny with the mark-
ings indistinct except for a narrow brownish line which crosses
the wing from about the mid-point on the hind margin to near
the apex. The distal portion of the wing is shaded with brown-
ish while the second row of post-discal spots only faintly indi-
cated are represented in the apex as white streaks with black
centres.

H.-w. : Ground-colour as fore-wing; all marks very faintly
indicated, but there is a whitish or greyish bar at about
mid-point in 7 and below this a dark brownish spot with diffuse
edges; the second row of post-discal spots is only slightly
indicated.

Female : General colour bright orange tawny with black
tip to f.-w. and with a white sub-apical bar.

F.-w. : Basal half bright orange tawny, distal half brown-
black. The cell marks similar to those of the male; the discal
row of spots as well as the first post-discal are represented in
la-2, but the second row or submarginal are clear and outlined
with white faintly tinged with violet, in lb-4, but only repre-
sented by white dots toward the apex. A well-marked sub-
apical white bar of irregular shape extends to sub-basal in 3.

H.-w. : Ground colour tawny-orange; markings as in the
male but faintly indicated, the most marked being the sub-
marginal wavy line; border of wing dusted with greyish.

Underside: Ground colour greyish-ochreous with a strong
pinkish suffusion especially toward the base of the fore-wing
and over the greater part of the hind-wing. F.-w. dark marks
only faintly indicated but white marks clear, especially the sub-
apical bar which has an extension of whitish to pinkish spots
running through areas lb and 2. The apical portion of the wing
is suffused with brownish.

H.-w. : All dark marks only faintly indicated, but the sub-
costal white mark at about' mid 7 is marked and below this are
two brownish marks with white centres, sub-basal in 5 and 6.

Early stages: Unknown.

Distribution: Has been taken by T. H. E. Jackson in the
Budongo forest in western Uganda and also occurs in the
eastern Congo region. It is possible that the Uganda insect
represents a race of the typical one of Cameroons. Uganda

Plate 9

Diestogyna saphirina, Karsch.

Figs. 1 & 2, male, upper and under surface.
Figs. 3 & 4, female, upper surface.

Figs. 5 & 6, female, under surface.

Plate 10.

Euryphene tentyris, Hew.
Male (Uganda).

Plate 10a

Euryphene absolon entebbiae, Lathy.

Figs. 1 & 2, male and female, upper surfaces.
Euryphene carshena, Hewit.

Fig. 3, male, upper surface.

Figs. 4 & 5, female, upper surface.

Plate 10b

Euryphene oxione squalida, Talbot.

Figs. 1 & 2, male, upper and under surfaces.
Figs. 3 & 4, female, upper and under surfaces.

Plate 11

Euryphene absolon entebbiae, Lathy. Figs. 1 & 2, male and female undersurfaces.
Euryphene carshena, Hewit. Figs, 3 & 4, female and male under surfaces.

Plate 12

Euryphene brunhilda, Kirby. Figs. 1 & 2, male and female.
Euryphene chriemhilda, Stgr. Figs. 3 and 4, male and female.
Euryphene senegalensis orientis, Karsch.

Figs. 5 & 6, male and female, upper surfaces.

Plate 13

Euryphene brunhilda, Kirby, Figs. 1 & 2, male & female, under surfaces.
Euryphene chriemhilda, Stgr. Figs. 3 & 4, male & female, under surfaces.
Euryphene senegalensis orientis, Karsch.

Figs. 5 & 6, male and female, under surfaces.

Plate 14

Euryphene laetitoides, J. & T. Figs. 1 & 2, male and female.
Euryphene mardania katera, van S. Figs. 3 & 4, male and female.
Eury phene mardania badiata, Rebel. Figs. 5 & 6, male and female.

(Upper surfaces.)

Plate 15

Euryphene laetitoides, J. & T. Figs. 1 & 2, 6 & $, under surfaces.
Euryphene mardania katera, van S. Figs. 3 & 4, <3 & 9, under surfaces.
Euryphene mardania badiata, Rebel. Figs. 5 & 6, $ & <$ , under surfaces.

specimens are larger than those from the eastern Congo, and
are not to be confused with Eu. iturina.

The type of brunhilda is a female. Uganda specimens differ
in having a larger white sub-apical bar in the fore-wing. The
discal hind-wing line is more prominent especially anteriorly.
On the under-surface the post-discal oblique dark line of the
fore-wing is sharply defined not obscure as in the typical form.
The hind-wing undersides of both sexes have distinct discal
patches.

[I consider this species to be a Mullerian mimic of Eu. a.
entebbiae in both sexes. It is less common, and on the whole,
a weaker flier than Eu. laetitoides. Both are to be found wher-
ever figs or other fruits are fermenting on the forest floor.—
T.H.E.J.]

EURYPHENE CHRIEMHILDA, Stgr. PL 12, figs. 3 & 4.

Pl. 13, figs. 3 & 4.

Expanse: Male, 55 mm.; female, 70 mm. Sexes unlike.

Male: General colour bright tawny-orange with black spots.
F.-w. : Ground colour bright tawny-orange; cell with a basal
triangular mark, followed by a narrow transverse line; a central
double circle black mark and beyond a faint black line, and at
the apex of the cell a broad black bar filling the bases of 4-6; a
dusky area at the base of lb distally margined with black; a
discal line of angled spots extends through la to 4 then at right
angles to the sub-costa in 6; a post-discal row of larger dark
spots follows more or less parallel to the discal row and beyond
this is a second row of rounded spots which follows the outer
margin of the wing. There is an admarginal line following the
contour of the wing, and the wing fringe is black.

H.-w. : Ground colour bright tawny-orange, dusky along the
costa. Cell with two narrow lined marks; a discal row of black
lines is present in 6-4 and only faintly indicated in 3. A post-
discal inner row of ill-defined spots is present in 6-2, most clear
in 4 and 5, followed by an outer row of spots, largest in 6. The
submarginal wavy black line is well defined and narrow.

Underside: Ground colour variable, either strongly bluish
violet-grey or tawny with a pinkish-rusty bloom with violet
tinge. Spots in cell marked and brownish in colour; a brownish
gradually narrowing bar runs between the basal and outer
halves of the wing; there is a sub-marginal row of diffuse
greyish spots slightly more defined toward the apex where they
are outlined with white.

H.-w. : Ground colour as fore-wing with an increase of the
violet-rusty tinge toward the centre of the wing. Cell spots
clearly defined but submarginal row diffuse though outlined

with the paler ground. The sub-costal mid-spot in 7 is ochreous
and this is followed by smaller spots of the same colour sub-
basal in 6-4.

Female: General colour bright orange-tawny with black
tip to fore-wing and with white sub-apical bar. F.-w. : Basal
half bright tawny-orange distal half black; cell marks as in the
male, but the bar at the apex submerged in the apical black.
Sub-apical white bar present in 4-6; the outer post-discal row
of spots outlined in whitish with violet tinge in 2-3, the white
being carried toward the apex as dots on either side of the black
marks, these dark marks being hidden in the dark surface.

H.-w. : Ground colour tawny-orange, black marks as in the
male, but those of the post-discal rows fading out toward the
inner margin, and with the submarginal wavy line distinct.
The marginal border is slightly dusted over with greyish scales
while the costa is dusky.

Underside: F.-w. basal area ochreous, the distal half with
an ochreous ground with greyish to brownish shading, the two
halves being separated by a narrowing brown line. Cell marks
grey-brown, sub-apical bar ending in 4 but apex with a white
streak and sub-apical spot. The post-discal outer row of spots
ill-defined.

H.-w. ochreous, grey-tinged with a brownish central area
sub-basal in 4-6, carrying white spots; sub-costal spot ochreous.
Other markings diffuse and only slightly indicated.

Early s^ges : The eggs of this species are laid on the leaves
of young plants of the doum palm. They also occur on the
Borasus palm. They are greenish white with small facets and
short spines arising from the angles of the facets. The larvae,
at first greyish olive, turn green after the first moult and assume
the feathered lateral projections characteristic of the group.
At the third and last larval instars the green is finely irrorated
with bluish grey. The larva can be reared on the cocoanut
palm. The pupa is hardly to be distinguished from that of

E. senegalensis orientis; the head is less bifid and the dorsal
spines shorter. The colour is green with gold at the bases of
the spines; the whole surface is glossy.

Distribution: The thickets and forests along the Kenya
coast, where they keep to the more shaded parts, flying low to
the ground. They are easily attracted to fermenting bananas
and other fruits.

EURYPHENE SENEGALENSIS ORIENTIS , Karsch.

PI. 12, figs. 5 and 6. PI. 13, figs. 5 and 6.

Expanse: Male, 50-56 mm.; female 65-70 mm. Sexes unlike.

Male: Reddish orange with dark marks and orange spots.

F. -w. : Bright orange-tawny with a reddish bloom; cell with

two wavy cross lines toward the base, then three contiguous
cross circles, followed by an S line, and at the end of the cell
an irregular bar with dark outline. The S line is orange on its
proximal side. A discal zigzag line passes from lb to 3 then
turns at right angles up toward the costa but does not touch it.
Distal to this line is a more orange diffuse bar becoming more
clear-cut toward the sub-apex where it forms a sub-apical bar.
The post-discal row of dark spots extend from lb up toward the
apex, and are surrounded by orange, and on the distal edge
there is a dark wavy line. The marginal border is slightly

darker than the rest of the ground.

H.-w. : Orange-tawny, paler at the inner fold of the wing.
There are no marks in the cell, but the discal line is dark and
visible through 4-6. The post-discal row of spots which follows
the contour of the wing is ringed with orange mostly proximally
and beyond this is a wavy dentate line running from the anal
angle to the upper angle. The marginal border is Rightly

dusted over with darker scales.

Underside: Greyish-ochreous on fore and hind-wings. The
orange bars of above show through slightly, and internal to the
row of small post-discal dark spots there is a freckled brownish
bar. The disc of the wing has very fine freckling over the basal
half.

H.-w. : This has the same fine freckling in two rows toward
the base and across the wing there is a darker bar of brownish
fine vermiculations. The post-discal row of spots are small and
the submarginal wavy line is faintly marked.

Female: General colour orange-tawny with black apical
half and a white sub-apical bar. F.-w. basal area rich tawny-
orange, distal half blackish-brown. Cell marks as in the male.
The sub-apical white bar extends from the costa to sub-basal in
3, the smallest spot being in 4, thus giving the bar an angled
appearance. There is a short discal line with paler orange dis-
tally followed by a darker diffuse spot in lb. The post-discal
row of dark spots, double in lb, here surrounded with orange,
is from 2, surrounded with white with a slight violet tinge, the
dark marks are then lost in the blackish ground but the white
is retained as three spots. The fringe is for the most part dusky
but is white in 5, 6, 7.

H.-w. : Basally rich tawny orange, shading to orange over
the post-discal area while the marginal border is shaded with
brownish scales. There are no marked discal bands, these being
indicated by a slightly darker freckling. The post-discal row
of spots extends from 7 to 2 mostly as dark short lines, while
the sub-marginal wavy line is strongly dentate and defined.

Underside : Greyish-ochreous with fine brownish vermicula-
tions passing through the discs of the wings and distad to this

there is a brownish line of heavier vermiculations which, taking
both wings, extends from the apex to the anal angle. The fore-
wing sub-apical bar is indicated by a white area, and the white
sub-apical spots of above are faintly indicated below.

Early stages : The common food plant of this species is the
coconut palm. The eggs are laid on the leaves of the younger
plants usually single, or occasionally in twos or threes. They
are creamy in colour with hexagonal facets from the angles of
which short spines arise. The larva hatches in seven to ten
days and is at first a brownish-olive, but at the first moult turns
a brighter green. During the first two instars they feed on the
surface layers of the leaves but later on eat the whole leaf
structure. The larva is characteristic of this group, having a
series of feathery processes from the lateral aspect of all the
segments except the last. The dorsal aspect of the 4th and 8th
segments are ornamented with a blue patch with a white centre.
Pupation takes place in three weeks to a month under favour-
able conditions. The pupa is much angled, the abdominal seg-
ments form an equilateral triangle from the cremaster to the
line of the wing-cases when viewed on the ventral surface, the
two lateral angles being prolonged into acute spines with golden
bases. On the dorsal surface, the second abdominal segment is
carried on into a marked spine broadly golden at the base. The
thoracic segments and wings form an elongate cone with the
head segment strongly bifid. The thorax is ornamented with
three lateral and one dorsal golden spot, the lateral ones being
along the edge of the wing cases. The pupal period varies from
a month to six weeks, though some may carry over for a longer
period.

Distribution: The species is very common all along the
coast, being most plentiful in the coconut shambas and the more
open forest along the margins of which doum and borasus palms
exist. They are particularly plentiful where the natives have
been cutting the husk from the coconuts, the attraction being
the fermenting juice from the husk. Males are more in
evidence than females and are more readily attracted to bait,
such as fermenting fruits of various kinds.

EURYPHENE LAETITOIDES, Joicey and Talbot.

PI. 14, figs. 1 and 2. PI. 15, figs. 1 and 2.

Expanse: Male, 50 mm.; female, 58-59 mm. Sexes unlike.

Male: Ground colour dark tawny-orange with rows of dark
spots. F.-w. : Cell with a basal inverted U followed by a trans-
verse narrow line then by a centrally placed double contiguous
spot, and beyond this an S-shaped line; just beyond the cell is
a dark transverse bar at base of 4 and 5. A narrow line is

present at base of lb. A discal line of dark more or less elongate
spots crosses the wing and turns up at a right angle at 4 toward
the costa. A post-discal row of spots, rather indistinct in la
and lb, thereafter more distinct passes up toward the apex then
turns inward as two long dark lines in 5 and 6 to the costa. A
submarginal row of spots starts in lb and extends to the apex
of the wing. The border of the wing has a dark line indistinctly
separated from the dark outer edge.

H.-w.: Costa less brownish, more greyish tinged. Cell
with two double lines; discal bar distinct in 5-3 and faintly
indicated in 2; post-discal contiguous elongate spots more dis-
tinct in 5-3 growing faint in 2; a further row is present, distinct
and circular in 6-4, then more elongate and less defined to 2 and
3. There is a submarginal wavy dark line following the contour
of the wing from the anal angle to the upper angle.

Underside: F.-w. basal half of the wing greyish with a
greenish tinge the distal half more brownish, sharply defined
along the post-discal line (proximally) and shading off into the
ground distally. The cell marks are distinct and grey-brown.
The second post-discal row of spots of above are here repre-
sented by small whitish dots, that in the apex arrow-shaped and
distinct. There is a paler more greyish bar proximal to the
brownish bar which becomes whitish just below the costa.

H.-w. : Basal area greenish-grey, distal half more brownish.
A greyish elongate streak crosses area 7 and less defined greyish
marks in 6-4. There is a series of post-discal greyish ovoid
marks with brownish central streaks from lc-7. Cell marks
finely indicated as above. The inner fold of the wing with a
slight violet tinge.

Female: Ground colour dull orange-tawny, with white sub-
apical bar and indistinct dark spots and lines.

F.-w.: Basal half dull tawny, distal portion dusted with
blackish-brown. Markings as in the male, but all more diffuse
and indistinct. There are two white sub-apical spots and a
well-marked sub-apical white bar which stops at vein 4. The
outer post-discal row of dark spots is made more obvious by
pale rings round the spots.

H.-w.: Dull tawny, slightly more greyish along the costa.
Markings as in the male but all more indistinct.

Underside: Ground colour pale ochreous-grey with in the fore-
wing a brownish shading to the distal half clearly defined proxi-
mally. Much of the lighter areas of above are here scaled with
white and show up as whitish bars and rings especially in the
post-discal areas of the fore and hind-wings. The sub-apical
white bar is present and in addition there is a white area toward
the apex.

Early stages: Unknown.

Distribution: This species is an inhabitant of the eastern
Congo but extends into Uganda, in its western forested areas,
and has been taken by T. H. E. Jackson in the Budongo Forest.
The male bears a superficial resemblance to the male of Eu .
absolon but is more rufous, and also to the male of Eu. brun -
hilda, but the dark spotting is not so distinct nor the ground
colour so red.

EURYPHENE MARDANIA KATERA, subsp. nov.

PI. 14, figs. 3 and 4. Pl. 15, figs. 3 and 4.

EURYPHENE MARDANIA BADIATA, Rebel.

PI. 14, figs. 5 and 6. PL 15, figs. 5 and 6.

This species occurs in two racial forms within the Kenya
Uganda borders.

Specimens from Katera appear to agree with the Eastern
Congo race, unnamed in the British Museum, and to which the
name KATERA may now be applied.

Expanse: Male, 58-60 mm.; female, 63-65 mm. Sexes unlike.
Race KATERA : Male, general colouration dark red-brown with
dark and orange marks.

F.-w. : Basal two-thirds red-brown with a strong purply
bloom. Cell with ill-defined marks; beyond the cell, a dark
irregular bar which is carried down sub-basal in 4 and faintly in
3. Beyond this is a sub-apical orange irregular bar. The post-
discal spots are here represented by a row of outer spots encircled
by orange, the spot in lb being faint. Beyond this is a sub-
marginal wavy line following the contour of the wing, and the
wing fringe is white-spotted in 4-6. Differs from the nominate
race in its less broad and less elongate sub-apical orange bar.

H.-w. : Red-brown strongly suffused with purple except
along the costa and the inner fold. The discal marks are hardly
visible whilst the outer post-discal row is only visible in 5-7; the
submarginal wavy line, most evident at the upper angle, fades
away toward the hind-angle.

Undersurface: Ochreous grey with a slight greenish tinge,
faintly vermiculated. The cell marks are slightly more grey,
outlined with brown, while there is a double brownish mark,
sub-basal in lb; this is part of a series which crosses to the hind-
wing, passing through the cell. A further dark brownish line
consisting of fine vermiculations, more distinct proximally, runs
from the apex of the fore-wing to the anal angle of the hind-
wing. The post-discal dark spots are here represented as small
blackish dots, and the submarginal wavy line is narrow and
hardly visible. The surface of the hind-wing is finely vermicu-
lated in more or less parallel series.

Race B ADI AT A, Rebel. In this race, the males are on an
average rather larger than katera, and are of a generally paler
red-brown with far less purply suffusion. The dark marks of
the fore-wing are less strong and hardly differentiated from the
ground colour. The sub-apical orange irregular fore-wing bar
is narrower and less definite, whilst the submarginal wavy lines
of fore and hind-wings are ill-defined. The undersurfaces of
the two races are very similar, but in the eastern form the mark-
ings are less strong and the ground colour is generally paler.

Females: Race katera : Ground colour dull reddish-tawny
with the apical half of the fore-wing black, this black colour
strong and extending from the apex of the cell to almost the
hind-angle; all spots within this black area, including the sub-
apical bar, white; the admarginal row of black-centred spots
white with a violet tinge.

H.-w. : Ground colour dull reddish-tawny slightly greyer
along the costa and darker at the base. The only dark
markings are a wavy submarginal line following the contour of
the wing from the upper angle to the anal angle. The post-
discal spots are hardly visible.

The race katera differs from the nominate form in its less
extensive black to the distal half of the fore-wing and in the
absence of the white mark in lb and submarginal white line in
la and lb of the hind angle, and the general different tone to
the orange-brown of the disc of the wings; this is duller, less
orange.

Type, male: Katei’a, October, 1935. T. H. E. Jackson.

Paratypes four males.

Type, female: October, 1935. T. H. E. Jackson.

Paratypes three females.

These types will be deposited in the British Museum; para-
types in the Coryndon Museum, Nairobi.

Race badiata. In this race the ground colour is less orange,
more greyish-tawny; the apical area of the fore-wing is only
slightly blackish, and the admarginal row of black-centred spots
are ochreous, not white, and not sharply defined. The black of
the fore-wing does not reach the apex of the cell. It is alto-
gether paler than katera.

Undersurfaces: Greyish-ochreous finely vermiculated, and
with the dark lines as in the males already described. The sub-
apical white bar is present but more restricted and the sub-
marginal spots are faintly indicated.

Distribution: This species is widespread throughout the

forests of Uganda and extends into the Kakamega-Kabras area.
They are to be found in the more open undergrowth and along

the forest paths exposed to sunlight. The flight is gliding and
if disturbed, swift. They are readily attracted to decaying
fruit.

[This species prefers hot sunny clearings and the outer
fringes of the forest. It has been taken feeding at oozing fer-
menting sap from trees. — T.H.E.J.]

EURYPHENE PHANTAS1ELLA SIMULATA, sub.sp. nov.

PI. 16, figs. 1-4.

Expanse: Male, 53 mm.; female, 60-63 mm. Sexes unlike.

Male: General colour olive brown with a yellowish fore-
wing bar. F.-w. : Ground colour olive-brown; cell with one
basal and two dark transverse bars; beyond cell a further dark
bar from which, at right angles, a series of discal dark spots
extend to the hind-edge of the wing. A marked yellowish sub-
apical bar extends from 6-4 and is carried out indistinctly toward
the margin but does not reach the edge. Two post-discal rows
of faintly indicated dark spots cross the wing, while the
marginal border is darker brownish.

H.-w. almost unicolourous olive-brown; the usual marks of
this group being very obscured.

Underside: Unicolourous olive-grey, with an obscure darker
line from apex of fore-wing to anal angle of hind-wing. The
fore-wing sub-apical bar is here white and stops short at vein 5,
but there is an apical white tip. In the hind-wing there is an
S-shaped white sub-costal mark in 7.

Female : Fore-wing ground colour black with a strong iride-
scent bluish patch in the mid-areas of la and lb, and slightly
at the base of 2. Sub-apical bar white, shaded bluish distally.
The disc of the hind-wing is strongly iridescent blue surrounded
by blackish along the costa and on the marginal border.

Undersurface strongly greenish as in the male, with the
dark marks similarly placed though stronger, and in addition
two white spots are present sub-basally in 5 and 6. This female
bears a strong resemblance above to Euphaedra inanoides but is
bluer.

Type, male: Katera, Uganda, T. H. E. Jackson, February,
1939. Paratypes, four males, three females, same data.

Early stages: Unknown.

Distribution: This eastern race was secured by T. H. E.
Jackson in the Katera forest in 1933 and 1939.

The male bears a marked resemblance to Euphaeda m.
fraudata. Mr. Talbot has supplied the following notes on the
specimens described above:

“ The male from Katera resembles in the width of the sub-
apical band phantasiella from Cameroons, but has the patch in

Eury phene sophus (Katera).

Figs. 1 & 2, male and female, under surfaces.

Euryphene sophus audeoudi, Riley.

Figs. 3 & 4, female and male, under surfaces.

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Plate 17

Euryphene pieistonax, Hew.

'igs. 1 & 2, male, upper and under surfaces,
’igs. 3 & 4, female, upper and under surfaces.

erj btj

Plate 16a

Plate 16

area 4 dusted with black as in most specimens of /. phantasina.
The underside is more pure green than either of the two allied
forms which have the green colour more or less washed with
greenish- white. Fore-wing with post-discal band straight, not
curved as in the two allied forms.

“ The female upperside resembles female phantasia, but
differs in the costal band being white, the part of the band below
vein 5 being mostly blue like the inner area of the wing; apical
white spot smaller. Hind-wing blue area darker, not paler on
the disc and its outer edge is sharply defined. The underside
resembles phantasina, but fore-wing with wider band; no distal
shading over the area between post-discal band and margin.
Hind-wing with larger white costal spot and two smaller white
spots below it in areas 5 and 6 and placed more distad.”

Mr. Talbot also adds the following notes : “ Euryphene
phantasiella, Stgr., and phantasina, Stgr. Associated with these
two names is another so-called species called maximiana, Stgr.,
1891, which has a female resembling the male. If the males
under these three names were mixed up, one could divide them
into a broad and a narrow-banded form and this would not hold
good if account were taken of the size of the white apical spot.
I suggest that one species exists for the above names, the female
being polymorphic.

“ If phantasia, Hew., is a second species it is distinguished
chiefly by the absence of a dark post-discal band on the under-
side of both wings, this band being always present, on the fore-
wing at least of the former species. If the three names given
above comprise one species, the oldest name is maximiana , but
if there are two species, then phantasiella, Stgr., 1891, has
priority over phantasina, Stgr., 1891. Until some proof is forth-
coming it may be best to keep the two separate.”

EURYPHENE PLEISTONAX, Hew. PL 16a, figs. 1-4.

Male: Upperside of fore-wing with proximal half bright
reddish-brown, its outer edge even and oblique from vein 4 or
a little above this, to near the tornus; distal area black, extend-
ing into upper angle of the cell; a subapical white bar from vein
9-5 and a small spot below vein 5; a post-discal row of five small
bluish-white spots in areas 2-6, those in areas 3 and 4 placed
more proximal than the others; a submarginal row of similar
spots in areas lb to 6, those in 5 and 6 minute and often absent.

Hind- wing the same colour as proximal half of fore-wing;
costal area to vein 7 smoky-brown, this colouring extending
often along outer margin to form a well-defined border that is
limited by a submarginal somewhat sagittate line.

Underside of both wings with proximal half pale ochraceous;
distal half somewhat pinkish-brown shaded with ochraceous.
Fore-wing with three sub-costal white spots in areas 4-6, that in
4 rounded; a post-discal, oblique, black, somewhat crenulate
line from vein 4 to lb; a submarginal, obscure, strongly waved
line; two black round spots in areas 4 and 5 near the submarginal
line, the lower spot placed more proximad than the other.

Hind-wing with a post-discal black line, very angulate and
irregular, from vein 8 to la; the whole inner side of post-discal
line up to end of cell, usually shaded with black, and also
usually a series of obscure black patches outside the line, and
separated from the waved submarginal line by a paler pinkish
area, bearing smaller obscure blackish spots.

Female: Upperside resembles the male but brown areas
paler. Fore-wing white sub-apical bar wider, and white spots
larger. Underside as in male, the markings more distinct.

Early stages: Unknown to me

Distribution: Western Uganda.

[This magnificent species occurs in dense forest where it is
extremely difficult to capture. Its flight is swift and erratic and
it is never seen for more than a few seconds. The red coloura-
tion of the male is very fine in the sunlight. — T.H.E.J.]
EURYPHENE SOPHUS AUDEOUDI , Riley. PI. 17, figs. 3 & 4.

PI. 18, figs. 3 & 4.

EURYPHENE SOPHUS (Katera). PI. 17, figs. 1 & 2.

PL 18, figs. 1 & 2.

Expanse: Male, 53-55 mm; female, 62-65 mm. Sexes unlike.

Male: General colour olive-brown with yellow fore-wing
bar and black spots and bars.

F.-w. : Ground colour olive-brown with a slight reddish
tinge. Cell crossed by black lines outlined at apex with ochre,
beyond the cell a broad black bar distally set off with a yellow
bar; beyond this a broader black bar sub-basal in 4-6, followed
by a yellow-ochre sub-apical bar which crosses 6, 5, 4, and
extends down the sub-margin of the wing and enclosing diffuse
submarginal dark spots. There is a dark line basal in lb,
followed by a discal band of dark spots from lb to 3, and ex-
ternal to this a further series of three post-discal spots, some-
what quadrate in shape.

H.-w. : Ground colour olive-brown with a reddish tinge
over the disc of the wing. Cell crossed by two black line
marks; beyond the cell an ill-defined discal black line extend-
ing to 3, followed by an angled wavy post-discal line which
fades out in 2, and beyond this a series of triangular dark spots,
rather obscure and not reaching lc. The submarginal wavy
line is more marked and blacker.

A second common form of male has the ground colour
rather more brownish and all the markings are submerged with
the exception of the fore-wing sub-apical bar.

Underside: Ground colour mostly violet-grey with an olive-
green shading toward the distal half of the fore-wing, this green
colour being concentrated as a median band from apex to mid-
point in the fore-wing with an extension through the hind-wing
from the mid-costa point thence in a curve to the centre of the
outer margin and then down the margin to the anal angle. The
yellow marks of above are here only slightly indicated but the
apex of the fore-wing has an angled white streak. The bases
of both fore and hind-wings are darker grey accentuated on the
outer margin by a yellow line, to as far as 4 of the hind wing.

Female: Wings even more falcate than male; general colour
olive-green with grey bloom, black tip to fore-wing crossed by
yellow bar.

F.-w. : Basal half olive green, distal black; cell with black-
lined marks; beyond the cell a broad black bar which passes
through the basal areas of 5, 4, and 3, and extends into 2 and in
lb is represented by a black spot. Beyond this is a well-defined
yellow, broad, sub-apical bar which carries two black spots
distally in 4 and is contiguous with and shades into the yellow-
green surrounding the sub-marginal dark spots. The marginal
border of the wing and the apex is black with a white tip and
two white dots.

H.-w. : Mostly olive-grey green, slightly more grey-brown
on the costa and inner fold. Discal marks obscure, but the
wavy submarginal line distinct from 7 to just above the hind-
angle. A variety of female is less green, more olive with the
dark marks of the fore-wing obscured.

Underside: Ground colour violet grey with the green-olive
shading more distinct and sharply defined. In the fore- wing the
sub-apical bar is white where it crosses the grey ground, but
brownish where it extends over the green shading. The post-
discal row of spots is represented by whitish streaks.

Early stages: The species lays its eggs on two species of
plants, one a wild “ rubber vine ” Landolphia, the other a
Chry sophy llum. The eggs are greenish with a faceted surface
and short spines. The young larva is at first olive, with hardly
any indication of the leathery lateral projections, characteristic
of the group. At the second moult the larva is green with a
pale to whitish centro-dorsal line and on either side, midway
between the dorsal line and the lateral projections there is a
blue spot present on each segment except the first and last. The
feathery projections are bluish green above, whitish below. The
pupa is bright green with a highly glazed surface, much angled

at the abdominal segments, especially the dorsal surface, and is
ornamented with black spots as follows: one large spot on the
thoracic tubercle, one on each of the “ shoulders,” and two on
either side of the wing cases. Most of the tubercles are golden
at the base with black tips. The vernation of the wing cases is
sometimes indicated by darker green lines.

Distribution: Occurs sparingly in the eastern forests of
Uganda but more plentifully in the central and western forests.
It is an insect of the undergrowth, frequenting the more open
areas.

[Is common in the Nandi-Kaimosi area, sparingly for some
unexplained reason in east and central Uganda, and is then
common again in Kalinzu and Ruwenzori. — T.H.E.J.]

EURYPHURA ACHLYS, Hopff. PL 19, figs. 1-5.

Expanse: Male, 55 mm.; female, 67 mm. Sexes somewhat
alike, but female paler and with more white.

Male: Ground colour golden-olive or blue-olive green. Cell
with two small lines at base, followed by a large black-lined
oval mark, then by a thin black line and at its apex a further
quadrate mark with a projection into 4. Sub-basal in lb is a
short line; beyond this a discal row of black marks from la to
sub-basal in 6. A post-discal row, double in la to 2 then
coalescing and continued as a single row to the apex, the four
last often with a white dot placed distad. There is a further
series of linear black marks submarginal and following the con-
tour of the wing. The marginal border is blackish.

H.-w. : Ground colour as fore-wing, slightly browner at

costa and brownish along the fold. Cell with one black spot at
mid-point. The apex of the cell crossed by a black-lined mark;
beyond this a short discal series of spots not extending beyond
vein 5, followed by two rows of post-discal spots, the outer row
more linear, both stopping short of the anal angle. The sub-
marginal dentate line is continuous from the upper angle to the
anal angle. The marginal border is narrowly black.

Underside: A rich rusty ochreous, often with a strong violet
bloom especially over the basal and discal areas. F.-w. : Mark-
ings obscure with the exception of the two large marks in the
cell, the four white dots in a line with the apex, and the white
tip. H.-w. : Marks in the cell are one circular, one more or less
rectangular at apex, and above the cell a further round mark
toward base of 6. The post-discal series of spots here repre-
sented as white dots and lines. The submarginal line as indis-
tinct greyish-brown with white dots at the veins,

Female: The female occurs in two forms, one very similar
to the male except for the greater amount of white on the fore-

wing; the other has a much paler ground colour, more grey-
green, so that the lines and spots, similarly placed to those of
the male, show up more distinctly. The white markings, con-
spicuous of the sex, are placed distad to the black discal marks
and increase in size toward the costa. The white spots on the
post-discal row of black spots are larger, and often number 6.

Underside: Rusty-ochreous with a violet-grey bloom over
the base and discs. The dark markings are less obvious than in
the male, but the white spots of above are well represented and
those of the post-discal series are blackish distally.

Early stages: The eggs are laid on the young leaves of
Chrysophyllum sp. They are rounded cones, deeply faceted
and from the angles of the facets are glistening spines, 1 mm.
long, giving the whole a glinting appearance, though the egg is
actually pale green. The larvae emerge in a week to 10 days.
At first dull olive, they become green with paler feathery pro-
jections, at the second moult. In the fourth stage the dorsum
is ornamented with a central white line, and on either side an
interrupted blue line. At the base of each of the feathered
lateral projections there is a blue spot. The larvae lie along
the mid-rib of the leaf with the feathery or fern-like projections
in contact with the leaf surface. The outline is then a long
oval. The pupa stage is reached within six weeks and the insect
emerges in six weeks. The pupa is highly glazed, bright, trans-
parent green with numerous golden spots corresponding to the
various spines and tubercles, the most apparent of which are
those on the angles of the wings, the “ shoulders,” that on the
second abdominal segment, dorsally, and the thoracic tubercle.
The head is strongly bifid, the points being black-tipped.

Distribution: The forests along the coast of Kenya more
particularly those with damp water courses or heavily shaded
ravines. The males can be attracted to bait (fermenting fruits),
and are much addicted to settling in a small patch of sunlight,
with wings outspread. The females keep more to the under-
growth.

EURYPHURA PLAUTILLA ALBIMARGO, Talbot.

Pis. 20-21, figs. 1-16. PI. 22, figs. 1-4.

(E. isuka , Stoneham, equals male of albimargo , Talbot, thus
a synonym.)

I have been at considerable pains to discover what is the
correct designation for the race of E. plautilla inhabiting the
eastern Belgian Congo east to Uganda and Kakamega in Kenya.

Consulting the literature, we find that the first name to be
applied to any form or sex of this eastern race is that of Talbot,
Bulletin Hill Museur, Vol. 1, 1921 (figured PL XI), p. 63, in

which a female is described as albimargo , f.nov. (type loc. Ituri
Forest). Subsequently, Stoneham described a male and female
from Kakamega as isuka and ithako respectively, Bulletin
Stoneham Museum No. 25, Oct., 1935, describing the male as a
species, though admitting that it might possibly “ be considered
a race ” of plautilla.

Examining a long series of males from Eastern Congo to
Kenya, we find that there is no constant difference between
them, and that the characters on which Stoneham founded his
isuka were to be found in western Uganda examples. Mr.
Talbot, examining the series in the British Museum, has come
to the same conclusion. Following the accepted procedure, pf
raising a form name to rank as sub-specific, and with the full
concurrence of workers in the Entomological Department of the
B.M. I have accepted Talbot’s name albimargo as that which is
applicable. I have adopted this procedure, although I am given
to understand that the International Rules of Nomenclature do
not give cognisance to names below sub-specific rank. It is,
however, a recognised common procedure and practice.

It will thus be noted that although albimargo is now applied
as the racial name for the eastern sub-species, it is still also
retained as the form name of those females answering to the
description of the type cited by Talbot. I have been guided in
this by those in authority in the British Museum. In dealing
with the several female forms, I have taken cognisance of the
fact that although very similar forms are associated with the
nominotypical E. plautilla plautilla, and have been designated
by form names, these names cannot be applied to somewhat
similar females of the eastern race, and I have thus adopted
the system of adding a prefix to the names of those forms of the
western race as have been described, and have retained certain
names which have been applied to female forms of the eastern
race. Thus ithako , Stoneham, is retained for the forms with a
continuous white band in the fore-wing.

Expanse: Male, 50 mm.; female, variable but average about
53-55 m.m Sexes unlike.

Male : General colour dull bronzy brown with darker brown
markings; anal angle produced to form a “ tail.”

F.-w. : Ground colour dull brown. Cell with two small
marks toward base, one large black line mark just beyond
middle, and a thin dark line beyond. At the bases of 4 and 5 a
further broad black-outlined mark with a projection into 4.
Bases of la and lb shaded dark, beyond this a discal series of
dark brown spots which carry on more or less at right angles
to the costa through 4, 5, 6. There is a post-discal double row
in lb to 2, continued forward to just short of the apex as a single

row, white inwardly, black distally, the largest white spot being
in 4. A submarginal interrupted zigzag line follows the contour
of the wing up to the apex.

H.-w. : Ground colour dull brown, paler along the inner
fold. Base of wing dusky over most of the cell, this with one
circular spot at mid-point and a further more rectangular lined
mark at apex. There is then a short series of discal spots stop-
ping short at 2. Beyond this is a row of post-discal triangular
dark marks and a second row of circular spots set in curves to
follow the wing contour, and running parallel to this is the sub-
marginal zigzag line from upper angle to anal angle.

Underside: The ground colour of both wings is dull

ochreous to buff with a rusty area over the incised portion of
the fore-wing and over the anal half of the hind-wing. The
markings of the fore-wing are two large black-lined grey marks
in the cell and just beyond; while the post-discal row of spots,
black to black and white, are present from lb to just within the
apex. The hind-wing marks are : two in the cell and a circular
mark just above. The other markings are obscured but the
post-discal row of spots are edged internally with white and
joined up to the submarginal series by white lines; the anal
angle has a double violet-tinged line.

Female: Variable; occurs in several forms. Pis. 20, 21, 22.
A. This is a form which is somewhat male-like in that the
general colour is brownish but not so dark as the male.
Ground colour grey-brown with the upper marks as in the
male but showing up more clearly on the paler ground. In
addition the discal series of angled marks are more pro-
nounced and are distally bordered with white whilst there
are long angled white marks in 4, 5, 6, forming an irregular
sub-apical bar. The post-discal series of dark spots are
accentuated on their inner side in 3-7 with white.

In the hind-wing the basal area is darker, defined on its
outer edge by a curved series of angled marks; beyond this
the discal zone is paler, and crossed by a double series of
post-discal marks, more diffuse arrow marks internally,
followed by more defined triangular dark marks outlined
with a paler brownish; and distal to this is a submarginal
wavy zigzag line.

Underside : This is best described as rusty-ochreous
slightly paler on the hind-margin of the fore-wing and
violet greyish toward the apex at sub-costa. The hind-wing
also rusty-ochreous, paler at the upper angle and tinged with
greyish below the cell. The f.-w. cell has two black-lined
dark grey marks, and beyond some greyish shading, while
the discal marks are angled dark brown and greyish; the

post-discal row of spots are white with black centres. The
h.-w. cell marks are similar to those of the male, but the
discal zigzag line is brownish outlined and accentuated with
whitish.

Type: Budongo, April, 1936 (Jackson); paratypes 3.
Budongo, June, 1936 (Jackson). = neo-alb of asciata f.f.
nov. PI. 21, fig. 10.

Al. A variation in which the ground colour is paler, more rusty
to pinkish especially over the discs of both wings so that the
spots and marks in this area show up more. There is, how-
ever, no, or hardly any indication of the white angular marks
in the fore-wing.

Type: Jinja, July, 1928 (van Someren); paratypes 4.
June-July, 1928 (van Someren); 1, Kakamega (T. H. E.
Jackson), 1933; 1, Katera (Jackson), Nov., 1935.

= conformis f.f. nov. PI. 20, fig. 8.

A2. A variation of above with the fore-wing whitish marks more
apparent, and in addition there is a distinct greenish tinge
to the surround of the outer post-discal dark spots especially
in areas lb and 2 of the fore-wing and toward the hind angle
of the hind-wing. This is an important transitional form
toward B. PI. 20, fig. 7.

B. Broadly speaking, this form might easily be mistaken for
the female of Euryphura achlys, the ground colour is the
same greyish-olive with a golden or brassy sheen in some
lights. In the fore-wing the white angled marks are present
especially in areas 3-6 and the post-discal series of dark dots
are white tipped. The dark markings of the cell and those
of the hind-wing show up distinctly on the greenish ground.

Type: Budongo, Nov., 1937 (T. H. E. Jackson). Para-
type 1 same date. = neo-oliva f.f. nov. PI. 20, fig. 5.

Bl. A variation of above, in which the ground colour is less
green, more greyish particularly over the disc of the fore-
wing and the surround of the post-discal row of spots in the
hind-wing. There is furthermore a distinct ochreous tinge
to the discal zone of the hind-wing, whilst the basal area is
thus sharply defined and darker. In the fore-wing the
whitish areas are wider, and there is a whitish shading
toward the apex of the cell and beyond so that the double
cross-bars here and in the cell show up more distinctly.
This variety is thus a further development of A2 toward B,
with an approach toward C described hereafter. PL 20,

fig. 6.

C. A very pale form in which the predominant colour is white.
F.-w. basal area of cell, bases of la-5 greyish-brown, this
area bordered and accentuated distally by a series of darker

Plate 19

Euryphura achlys, Hopff.

Pigs. 1 & 2, male, upper and under surfaces.
Fig. 3, variety of female (male-like).

Figs. 4 & 5, female, upper and under surfaces.

Plate 20

Euryphura plautilla albimargo, Talbot.

Figs. 1-3, males (Uganda), upper and under surfaces.
Fig. 4, male (Kakemega), under surface.

Figs. 5 & 6, f.f. neo-oliva, van S. (green forms).

Figs. 7 & 8, f.f. conformis, van S. (brown forms).

Plate 21

Euryhura plautilla albimargo, Talbot. Female forms
Fig. 9 (brown form), conformis X neo-alb of as data.
Fig. 10, f. neo-albofasciata, van. S.

Figs. 11 & 12, f. ithako, Stoneham.

Fig. 13, f. neo-athymoides , van S.

Fig. 14, f. bicolor, van S.

Figs. 15 & 16, albimargo, Talbot.

spots and arrow marks in a line from sub-base in la-4 thence
in an angle toward the costa in 5 and 6. Beyond this the disc
is white extending toward the hind-angle and crossed by a
diffuse indistinct inner and a more distinct darker outer,
series of post-discal marks, and beyond by a sub-marginal
broken series of wavy dark marks, the border of the wing
being brownish-grey especially toward the apex which
carries a further series of four dark spots following the
contour of the tip. These spots as well as the upper of the
submarginal series are whitish proximally. The fore-wing
cell is crossed by three dark-lined bars, and beyond its apex
is a dark-lined hastate mark outlined with white. The
hind-wing basal area is grey-brown filling the cell and bases
of la-2 and 8; this dark area shades off to white at the bases
of 4-7 and beyond is crossed by a curved dentate line from
mid-costa to apex of cell and on to the inner margin.
Beyond, the wing is broadly white to almost the border
which is narrowly brownish at the upper angle gradually
widening toward the hind-angle. This white area is crossed
by an inner row of ill-defined arrow brownish marks and an
outer series of graduated spots, then by a submarginal zig-
zag line from upper angle to anal angle. The inner fold of
the wing is grey-brown. This type of female may be known
as f.f. albimargo , Joicey and Talbot. PI. 21, fig. 15.

Cl. is a variety of C in which the basal brownish areas are
darker with little white just beyond the fore- wing cell, with
only a greyish shading above and beyond the hind-wing
cell; with the discal row of dark spots in less of a curve but
stronger, so that between this and the broader marginal
dark border, the white band shows up more distinctly.
Furthermore the submarginal zigzag line is wider and
darker. There is a distinct green sheen to the area beyond
the cell. In the fore-wing the dark border is wider and
extends so as to almost include the series of dark sub-
marginal spots which are only slightly outlined with white.
There is evidence in this variety of the B1 greenish coloura-
tion; it however is a variant of albimargo. PI. 21, fig. 16.

C2. This is a variation of C 1 in which the basal dark areas as
well as the borders to fore and hind-wings are darker, more
blackish-brown; the basal dark areas being sharply defined
distally and strongly dentate. The apical black and the
border of the fore-wing and the dark border of the hind-
wing reach up to and include the submarginal zigzag row of
lines. The outer row of post-discal arrow marks are still
within the white band, whilst the inner row is only faintly
indicated. = ithako, Stoneham. PI. 21, figs. 11 and 12.

D. In which the dark areas can be termed black-brown con-
trasting strongly with the discal pure white band on fore
and hind-wings. The outer row of post-discal spots are
blacker and more definite and there is a reduction in the
V-shaped white at the sub-bases of 5 and 6 in the fore-wing.
There is a distinct violet sheen to areas la and lb in fore-
wing and 4 and 5 of hind-wing. = bicolor f.f. nov. PI.
21, fig. 14. Type: Budongo, June, 1936 (T. H. E. Jackson).
Dl. In this form, the distinguishing feature is the great reduc-
tion or absence of any white spot in the f.-w. bar in 4, so that
this bar is separate from the sub-apical white bar, which is
itself almost at right angles to the wing band. This form,
which is common, and though showing, as these several
forms do, intergrades amongst themselves, may be known
as neo-athymoides f.f. nov. PI. 21, fig. 13.

Type: Kampala, Jan., 1935 (T. H. E. Jackson). Para-
types 7. Kakamega, Oct., 1930, Sept., 1937 (T. H. E. Jack-
son); Jinja, May, 1923; Mulange, Oct., 1921; Kakamega,
Feb., 1932 (van Someren).

The brown-black beyond the f.-w. cell thus extends and
meets the dark marginal border.

In view of the variation in the females as indicated above,
it is suggestive that this species is closely related to, if not
actually conspecific with achlys. Indeed, Holland, in reporting
on the Lepidoptera taken by the American Expedition to the
Congo, Bull. American Mus Vol. XLIII, p. 193, records a
female taken as achlys, Hopff. and states that it agrees with
examples of that species from Zanzibar! Examination of the
genitalia, in wet and dry preparations, indicates a remarkably
close affinity in achlys and plautilla , there being just that slight
difference, though not by any means constant, which might be
expected in two races of the same species. The general facies
of the genital armature in both is the same, and the variation
in the number and position of the spines on the penis is present
in both. As, however, the relationship of these two to chalcis
is in doubt, I record them as species, with the above proviso.

Early stages: I am indebted to Miss Fountaine for infor-
mation regarding the early stages of this insect. “ Found very
commonly on a low-growing creeper, a species of wild rubber,
in the more shady parts of the Kibale Forest. Unfortunately
out of more than two dozen larvae found on this plant, every
single one was parasitised. Other larvae taken on Chryso -
phyllum albidos had escaped parasitation and finally produced
butterflies. The full-grown larva is green with a distinct white
dorsal line, on either side of which, on each segment, is a small

distinct blue spot. The head is green, and the first segment
carries two long branched horns of the same colour. On the
lateral aspect of all the other segments are fairly long feathery
appendages, paler green in colour, with a slight bluish tinge.

“ The pupa is bright green with black spots on the abdominal
spiracles and thoracic tubercles.”

Distribution : This species has been taken in greatest
numbers in the forests of western Uganda, but extends east to
the Kakamega and Kabras forests in Kavirondo. It is very
plentiful in Katera, Kibale, Budongo.

The female form albimargo , Talbot, bears a strong resem-
blance to the female of Cymothoe s . hobarti and to a lesser
degree with the white female form of Harma theobene. There
is also a resemblance between the form D, bicolor, and the black
and white females of Cy h. johnstoni.

[Both sexes of this species may be taken, wherever they
occur, on fallen fruits. They fly low along forest paths and
roads, settling every now and then to feed for a few moments
with closed wings, when they become practically invisible.—
T.H.E.J.]

CYMOTHOE SANGARIS HOBARTI , Btlr. PI. 23, figs. 1-6.

Expanse: Male, 50-52 mm.; female, 58 mm. Sexes unlike.

Male: General colour bright red. F.-w. : Bright red except
for the apex and the extreme margin which are black. Some
specimens have very small black dots sub-marginally, the one
usually present being in 6. H.-w. : Bright red with the fold of

the wing ochre-grey; the extreme margin is black and there is
a submarginal row of black spots, those toward the anal angle
sometimes being joined by fine black angled lines. There is
often a dull blackish spot below the costa in 7.

Underside: Rusty-ochreous with a rusty line crossing the
hind-wing from just above the anal angle to about the mid-point
on the costa and thence to the fore-wing to the root of vein 7.
The submarginal and post-discal marks are obscured, but two
black-lined marks are present in and just beyond the cell and
at the base of lb. In the hind-wing there are two black-lined
marks in the cell and a broken wavy black line through the disc.
The post-discal dots are greyish-white whilst the fringe carries
white dots in the interspaces.

Female : Mostly white with a dusky suffusion over the bases
of both wings and on the margins and apex of fore-wing. Both
wings are crossed by a median dark lino. F.-w. cell with wavy
black lines and white interspaces beyond root of vein 2.
Beyond the cell two further lines followed by a wide white bar.
The apex and margin broadly dusky and internal to this two

series of arrow-head marks; in some specimens the outer marks
are joined. Sometimes there is a discal series of loops proximal
to the white bar. H.-w. : Dusky at the base and along the inner
fold; margin dusky with ochreous patches at the tips of the
veins. An outer post-discal series of arrow-shaped marks is
present followed by a submarginal series of stronger blackish
dots connected up by black angles at the veins.

Underside: The median band of above is here represented
by a stronger line especially on the h.-w. Distal to the line the
wings are whitish to buff with a slight dusky shading in the
incised area of the f.-w. and margin of h.-w. The submarginal
and outer post-discal marks are faintly indicated, but the white
areas internal to the median line are accentuated by black out-
lines and from the median line to the base of the wings the
ground colour is either ochreous grey or ochreous with a strong
pink tinge.

Early stages: The eggs are laid on the young shoots of

Rinorea (violaceae), usually on the lower surface toward the
edge. They are rounded cones with flat facets and short
spines, and of a greenish colour. The larva is brownish olive
at first, but turns a sap green at the second moult. The mature
larva is bluish-green with short blackish spines greenish at the
base and slightly branched at the tips. The spines on the seg-
ments after the first thoracic are longer and much more branched
throughout their length. The dorsum of the segments is orna-
mented by a thin white line; on either side of this a broad dark
green line with an interrupted yellow line running its entire
length. Below the lateral line of spines is a narrow white line
which shades off into the paler green of the underside. The
head is yellowish with a few black spots, while the last segment
is also yellowish. The pupa is a pale green with yellow
spiracles, and with darker green areas on the thoracic case.

Distribution : Most common in the Kakamega-Kabras

forests the species ranges through most of the Uganda forests,
sparingly in the central provinces but more abundant in south-
western districts. The males are more in evidence than females,
due no doubt to their conspicuous colouration. Males are often
noted skimming just above the ground along pathways especially
where wild fruits have fallen and lie about decaying. The
similarity between the females and the albimargo form of
Euryphura plautilla has already been noted.

[This species is seldom seen in the open, being confined to
the dense forest where the males come down occasionally from
the trees to rest a moment in a sunny patch on a low tree and
then back again to the higher foliage. The colouring is magni-
ficent as it suns itself with wings widely open, the brilliant

colour standing out from the intense green of the forest foliage.
It is rarely seen feeding, but occasionally a male may be found
amongst Euphaedra and Euryphene on the fallen fruits of some
forest tree. The females strongly resemble those of Cy. theobene
in flight.

The distribution of this species is interesting as it occurs
from Kakamega, throughout Uganda, but not apparently into
the Congo where its place seems to be taken by two other
closely allied species. — T.H.E.J.]

CYMOTHOE CAENIS , Drury. Pl. 24, figs. 1-6. PL 26, figs. 1-6.

PL 25, figs. 1-6, Pl. 27, figs. 1-3.

PL 28, figs. 1-8.

Expanse: Male, 56 mm.; female, 60-65 mm. Sexes unlike.

Male: General colour creamy white with green tinge,

borders black. F.w. : Ground colour creamy-white with greenish
tinge, costa narrowly black for basal two-thirds, the black then
widening at the apex and outer margin of the wing, forming a
black border, white spotted at the fringe in the interspaces. A
post-discal series of angled black marks extends from la and lb,
where the marks are large, to the sub-apex; beyond this an ad-
marginal series of larger and blacker arrow-head marks. Base
of wing slightly dusted with blackish scaling.

H.-w. : Ground colour white with the fold and tuft greyish;
vein 8 and the basal part of 7 black; an outer post-discal series
of angled blackish marks largest toward the anal angle and
gradually fading out extends up to 7. The border is black with
white spots on the fringe and internal to this is an admarginal
row of arrow marks, black in colour, largest in 4, 6, and 7.

Underside: Pale greenish-white shading to white distally,
with a sharply defined median band beyond which the area is
dusted and patterned with grey-brown. Distal to the median
band is a series of post-discal arrow marks surrounded by
whitish, and admarginally there is a further series of black dots
joined up by angled lines; the border is shaded with grey-brown,
while the fringe is darker brownish. The cells of both wings
have fine black-lined marks and in the discal areas of both there
are wavy broken lines of brownish.

Female : The development of the female pattern and coloura-
tion appears to progress in two directions: one in which the
pattern remains more or less constant, but there is a deepening
in the ground colour from the male-like colour ( conformis ) to the
deep sienna in the adelina forms; the other in which the pale
whitish or creamy colour is retained as a discal bar in greater or
lesser degree, vars, of rubrida to dumensis .

The different forms are described as follows:

A. A form which superficially resembles the male, the ground
colour being similar, but the cell is crossed by wavy black
lines; the apex is more suffused with blackish grey as also
are the borders of fore and hind-wings with the post-discal
row of arrow marks larger and the admarginal series larger
and showing up prominently in the greyish ground. = f.f.
conjormis, Auriv. PI. 24, figs. 2-3.

Al. A modification of the above in which the cell marks of both
fore and hind-wings are more marked and with blackish
scaling in 4-6 beyond the cell; a greater amount of black
marginal border with the admarginal and post-discal outer
row of spots more clearly defined and darker. In this form
there is a very slight yellowish suffusion over the base of
the cell in the fore-wing and the post-discal arrow marks in
the hind- wing in 3-5 are yellowish. PI. 24, figs. 4 and 5.

A2. A further modification in which the bases of both fore and
hind-wings are suffused with orange to just before the end
of the cell, and the arrow marks in 3-5 in both fore and hind
wings are orange. The admarginal hastate black marks are
larger. This transitional form is an approach to B. = f.f.
rubida , Holl. PI. 24, fig. 6.

B. Into this category come certain transitional forms which
combine the characters of rubida and dumensis, Strand.
They may be described as having the basal areas of fore and
hind-wings strongly orange to beyond the end of the cell
with this colour more or less defined distally, so that there
is a wide bar of the whitish ground crossing both wings,
between this orange base and the wide dark marginal border;
the marginal border again suffused with yellowish to orange
between the post-discal row and admarginal spots particu-
larly in areas 4-5 of the hind-wing. PI. 25, figs. 1 and 2.

Bl. A modification in which the orange basal areas particularly
in the fore-wing in the region of the cell strongly dusted
over with greyish scaling and the distal border of the orange
outlined with a dark zigzag line. This is an approach to C.
PL 25, fig. 4.

B2 represents transitional forms toward obscura , Schultz, in
that the basal orange areas are more suffused both in the
fore and hind-wings with greyish scaling and the discal band
is obscured. There is a tendency to a more reddish-tawnv
basally. PI. 25, figs. 5 and 6.

C. A form in which the basal areas are strongly sienna or red-
brown sharply defined distally where there is a defined
whitish to yellowish discal band which on its distal border is
defined by the blackish arrow marks of the post-discal row of

spots. The marginal border is blackish but the surround
of the admarginal large black hastate spots is orange. =
dumensis, Strand. PI. 25, fig. 3.

Cl. Somewhat like the above but the discal band more light
orange and less defined, especially proximally. PI. 26, fig. 1.

D. Forms in which the general pattern is similar to A and Al,
but the ground colour is orange. = lutea, Schultz. PL
26, figs. 2-3.

Dl. Can be described as a pale lute a in which the ground colour
is yellow. In some, there is a suffusion of greyish scaling
over the bases of the wings especially over the base of the
fore-wing cell. PI. 27, figs. 1-3.

E. Similar in pattern to D, but the ground colour a richer
darker orange tawny to orange, to sienna, with hardly any
paling off in the region of the discal band. = adelina, Hew.
Pl, 26, figs. 4-6.

EL Very like above, but basal areas suffused with greyish, and
the marginal dark border not invaded in 4-5 of h.-w. or lb
and 2 of f.-w. with sienna.

Early stages: Unknown to me.

Distribution: Forests of Uganda, particularly central and
western. They appear to be particularly numerous in the
forests to the east of Lake Albert, Bugoma, and Budongo, and
again in the Mawakota forest. The species is one of those
which, on occasion, will migrate in vast numbers.

[This is a forest species, but occasionally migrates and is then
found in the open. The males of this and all other species of
the genus like to sun themselves on a particular branch from
which they drive off all intruders. They may be taken occa-
sionally on rotting fruit or rarely on the droppings of leopard,
hyaena, etc., but this is less common than in the other genera of
the group.

The females similarly may sometimes be seen on fallen
fruit, but they are more wary than the males and are usually
seen for a second as they dodge across an open space in the forest
in search of the food plant.

There appears to be a distinct lag in the emergence of the
female sex, the males always appearing first.— T.H.E.J.]

CYMOTHOE HERMINIA JOHNSTONI , Butler.

PL 29, figs. 3 & 6. Pl. 30, figs. 1-6.
Pl. 31, figs. 2-8. PL 34, fig. 1.
Expanse: Male, 55-60 mm.; female, 60-75 mm. Sexes unlike.
Male: General colour cream with a broad black border
carrying light spots. There is some variation in the degree of

biack and the colour of the ground surrounding the admarginal
black marks.

F.-w. : Ground colour cream with a greyish shading at base;
costa increasingly black from mid-point to apex; marginal border
broadly brown-black, the proximal edge being deeper black and
strongly dentate; the admarginal row of arrow-shaped black
marks are broadly surrounded by cream and joined together by
fine black lines, the two largest spots are in 3 and 4.

H.-w. : Ground colour as fore; the base shaded with grey,
and passing to brown-black through the base of the cell and down
the inner fold. The black bar present on the fore-wing is
carried down through the hind-wing to just above the anal angle,
whilst the admarginal arrow-marks are again repeated, the two
largest being in 3 and 4. The border is black-brown, narrowest
at 5 and 6, whilst the fringe has white spots mid-way between
the veins.

(The above description applies to an average male, but two
extreme varieties are to be found: (a) a very much darker form
which occurs in the western distribution of this race, and (b) a
very light form in the south-eastern portion of its range. Both
of these will be referred to later.)

Underside: Creamy-ochreous, with a narrow median line
crossing both wings, the proximal area with a zig-zag pattern of
brown lines enclosing areas with brownish scaling; on the distal
portion of the wings, the black dentate bar of above shows
through, as also does the series of admarginal marks, though on
this surface they are represented as small black dots. The wing
fringe is brownish with white dots. The incised portion of the
fore-wing is rusty-tinged.

Male Variations:

A. A form in which the dark border is very much wider in
both fore and hind-wing, more intense in colour and strongly
defined proximally. The admarginal arrow-marks are sur-
rounded with less ground colour, which is strongly bright
orange-yellow instead of cream. The underside is heavily
marked both within and outside the narrow median line;
whilst the admarginal arrow marks, accentuated by a light
ground, are well defined in all areas except 3 and 4 of the
fore-wing, and 4 of the hind-wing. Such a male shows a
strong approach to the nominotypical herminia , but as it
flies with the typical johnstoni in the Kalinzu forest of West
Ankole, Uganda, it must be considered only a form of the
race johnstoni. Furthermore it differs from the race her-
minia in that the black border is not so narrow and restricted
to the margin, thus the yellowish surround to the arrow
marks is more restricted. PI. 29, fig. 1. Pl. 31, fig. 1.

Plate 22

Euryphura plautilla albimargo, Talbot.
Under surfaces.

Fig. 1, f.f. neo-oliva, van S.

Fig. 2, f.f. neo-alb of as data, van. S.
Fig. 3, f.f. bicolor, van S.

Fig. 4, f.f. albimargo , Talbot.

ikw#1

Plate 23

Cymothoe sangaris hobarii, Btlr.

Figs. 1 & 2, males, upper surface. Fig. 6, male, under surface.

Figs. 3 & 4, females, upper surface. Fig. 5, females, under surface.

Plate 24

Cymothoe caenis, Drury.

Fig. 1, male, upper surface.

Figs. 2 & 3, male-like females, f. conformis.
Figs. 4 & 5, transitional to rubrida.

Fig. 6, female, f. rubrida, Holland.

Plate 25

Cymothoe caenis, Drury.

Figs. 1 & 2, transitional to rubrida.

Fig. 3, female form dumensis, Strand.
Figs. 4 & 5, transitional to lutea-adelina .
Fig. 6, transitional to lutea.

Plate 26

Cymothoe caenis, Drury. Female forms.
Fig. 1, transitional to lutea.

Figs. 2 & 3, f. lutea, Schultz.

Figs. 4-6, f. adelina, Hew.

Plate 27

Cymothoe caenis, Drury.

Figs. 1 & 2, pale yellow, transitional to lutea X conformis.

Fig. 3, transitional, conformis-lutea.

Cymothoe coranus, Smith.

Fig. 4, male upperside.

(For other figures of this species vide PI. 27a and PI. 34, fig. 6.)

Plate 27a.

Figs. 1-3 females Cymothoe coranus, Smith.
Figs. 4-7 males, underside.

Plate 28

Cymothoe caenis, Drury (undersurfaces.)
Fig. 1, male. Fig. 2, f.f. conformis.

Fig. 3, f.f. rubrida. Fig. 4, f.f. dumensis.
Fig. 5, f.f . nr. lutea. Fig. 6, f.f. adelina.
Fig. 7, f.f. lutea. Fig. 8, f.f. dumensis.

Plate 29

Cymothoe herminia johnstoni, Butlr.

Fig. 1, transitional to herminia herminia. (See text.)

Fig. 2, transitional between herminia and johnstoni.

Fig. 3, almost typical johnstoni.

Figs. 5 & 6, typical male johnstoni, Btlr.

Fig. 4, an extreme pale form of johnstoni (South Kavirondo). (See text.)

Plate 30

Cymothoe herminia johnstoni, Btlr. Female forms.

Fig. 1, f. sultani, Bryk. Fig. 4, f. kakamega, van. S.

Fig. 2, f. bijpartita, van S. Fig. 5, transitional between 3 and 6.
Fig. 3, f. johnstoni, J. & T. Fig. 6, confluens, van. S.

Plate 31

Cymothoe Inerminia johnstoni, Btlr. Under surfaces.

Fig. 1, male Inerminia. Fig. 5, f.f. sultani, Bryk.

Figs. 2 & 3, johnstoni (males). Fig. 6, bipartita, van. S.

Fig. 4, f.f. budongo, van. S. Fig. 7, f.f. nr. confluens, van. S.
(vide P. 34, fig. 1). Fig. 8, f.f. kakamega, van S.

Plate 32

Cymothoe teita, van. S.

Figs. 1 & 2, males, upper and under surfaces.
Figs. 3 & 4, females, upper and under surfaces.

A variation of the above occurs in which, although the
wide border is present, the fore- wing arrow marks and light
surround are not clearly defined, but diffuse. PL 29, fig. 2.
B. In contrast to the herminia- like variation of the western
Ankole district, there occurs in South Kavirondo an extreme
pale form which has the appearance of an extension of the
cream ground outward toward the apex of the fore-wing and
only separated from the cream spots of the apex by narrow
dark angled lines. The dark marginal border is not strongly
defined, and the admarginal black marks, arrow-shaped in
the other forms, are here small dots except toward the hind
angle of the hind-wing. In addition, the cream spots are
almost obliterated in areas 3 and 4 in the fore-wing.

PI. 29, fig. 4. On the underside, a marked feature is
the width of the dark median band, wider than in typical
johnstoni, almost straight in the fore-wing but curved inward
toward the cell in the hind-wing. Six males from S. Kavir-
ondo are similar in all these respects. (For underside, see
PL 31, fig. 3.)

Females : In this species we find that the female sex exhibits
distinct though not very striking colour differences, for all are of
a black and white combination.

I have figured the more distinctive variations on Plates 30
and 31. In consultation with Mr. Talbot, and as the result of
his kind assistance, I am able to cite what should be accepted as
the nominotypical female, f. johnstoni (Bull. Hill. Mus., 1, p. 59,
Pl. X, fig. 17) and described as such by Joicey and Talbot.

Broadly speaking, the female forms can be divided into two
groups, (a) in which the dark ground is traversed by a discal
white bar on both wings distal to which the dark arrow marks
are not accentuated by white; (b) in which, in addition to the
discal white bar, the arrow marks are proximally, and to an
extent distally, accentuated with white.

Group B.

(1) Female f. JOHNSTONI , J. & T. (PL 30, fig. 3.)

Ground colour, brown-black, with a narrow discal or median
band of white in almost a straight line from just above the anal
angle of the hind-wing, to 3 in the fore-wing, then set slightly
in and extending to the sub-costa, through 4-6. The proximal
edge of the white bar is almost straight in the hind-wing, and
indented along the veins in the fore-wing. On the distal side
the band is dentate to a greater or less degree. In the type, it
is strongly dentate, but in the specimen I figure it is less so.
Beyond the band is a series of black arrow-head marks, apices
inward, accentuated proximally by white, following the general
contour of the wings.

The fore-wing cell is crossed by wavy black lines; the hind
cell has an ovoid black mark toward the apex, and an 8-shaped
mark at its centre.

The specimen figured differs from the neallotype johnstoni
only in that the post-discal white marks are set further out from
the white band; otherwise it agrees very well.

Underside: Ground colour ashy-grey-brown; discal bar as
above but not so distinct; dark arrow marks present proximally
edged with white as above, and distally bordered with the same
colour but to a greater degree than above. Hind cell with dark
marks as above; base of 8 with a whitish mark. Fore-wing cell
with narrow wavy lines as above, and with white bars proxi-
mally and distally; lb with a dark circular mark with white
areas on either side.

(2) Female f. CONFLUENS, f. nov. PL 30, fig. 6.

This form can be taken as the extreme in this group. It is
characterised by the great width of the discal white bar which
is separated from the white marks in the post-discal area by
indistinct angle dark marks, almost obscured in 3 in the fore-
wing. The marginal border is not strongly dark, and the arrow
black marks are not so acute, thus not so long. The underside
shows a correspondingly greater amount of white with only faint
dark angled lines and small black dots corresponding to the
arrow marks of above.

Type, female, Budongo forest, May, 1936, T. H. E. Jackson.

Mr. Talbot informs me that there is a similar specimen in
the B.M. from Kalinzu Forest.

(3) Female f. PI. 30, fig. 5. PI. 31, fig. 7.

This is an intermediate form between johnstoni and con-
fluens and need not be distinguished by a separate name.

Group A.

(1) Female f. BIPARTITA, f. nov. PI. 30, fig. 2. PI. 31, fig. 6.

Differs from f.f. johnstoni by the more intense blackish
ground colour both proximally and distally to the discal white
band which is narrow, and tapering toward the hind-angle, more
curved in the fore-wing, and generally narrower in areas 3-6.
The dark ground distal to the median band has no white in the
post-discal zone, and the black arrow-head marks show up
indistinctly in the blackish ground. The underside is consider-
ably darker than in johnstoni and has a distinct purply tone
particularly in the fore-wing proximal to the discal white band
which is more sharply defined throughout its length. This is
the darkest form of female. The post-discal and submarginal
dark marks are obscured in the ground colour.

Type, female, Kalinzu Forest, W. Ankole. T. H. E. Jack-
son, October, 1937.

(2) Female f . KAKAMEGA f . nov. Pl. 30, fig. 4. PL 31, fig. 8.

Resembles somewhat the form bipartita , in the intensity of
the dark ground proximal to the white discal band which is
wider in both fore and hind-wing, but the distal dark border is
more brownish and thus the post-discal angled dark marks and
the submarginal arrow-head black marks show up very dis-
tinctly; furthermore, there is a series of white angled marks
distal to the post-discal angled marks. The bases of areas 3-6
beyond the cell are very blackish, whilst the dark cell marks
stand out conspicuously.

The underside is distinctive, having the greyish-ochreous
ground colour suffused with olive proximal to the discal band
which is strongly defined proximally by a brown median line
throughout the hind-wing and on the fore- wing to as far as 3.
The distal portion of both wings is strongly ochreous-grey and
the dark marks of above do not show through nor are indicated
by dots.

Type, female, Kakamega, July, 1935, T. H. E. Jackson.

(3) Female f. BUDONGO f. nov. Pl. 31, fig. 4. Pl. 34, fig. 1.

A curious form in which the basal areas of both wings
internal to the discal white bar is brownish-black with the usual
dark marks of the cells of both wings obscured. The white
band is broad throughout, but fades out toward the costa of the
fore-wing (as here it is dusted over with dark scales) at the bases
of 4-6, but white scaling is present as a continuation of the discal
bar toward the sub-apex at about the mid-points of these areas.
The usual angular extension of white from the bar into 2 and 3
across the median line is scaled in greyish so that the band has
a straighter proximal edge up to 4. On the distal edge of the
band are angular dark lines in the hind-wing, and arrow-head
marks in the fore-wing, both blacker than is usually the case,
with only a slight whitish scaling in the angles, but the dark
arrow-head marks so conspicuous in the hind-wing of the other
forms are entirely absent here.

On the underside, the basal areas of both wings are ashy-
grey with the dark cell lines and marks unusually prominent
especially that in lb of the fore-wing and the apical cell spot in
the hind-wing. The discal band is not well defined and shades
into the border which is only slightly dusted with greyish scales,
and brownish along the edges. The angular marks of above are
here grey.

Type, female, Budongo, May, 1936, T. H. E. Jackson.

Group C.

Female f. SULTANI , Bryk. Pl. 30, fig. 1. PL 31, fig. 5.

This conspicuous form is somewhat like bipartita in the form
of the discal white bar and the dark basal half of the wings, but
differs in the distal portions, being lighter, more brownish, and
in having the distal edges of the dark arrow marks and to a
certain degree the proximal edges in the fore-wing, bordered with
ochreous-yellow much as in the herminia-like male already
described. The underside is very strongly marked both as
regards to ground colour which is ochreous-grey with a purply
bloom, and the dark post-discal and sub-marginal marks. There
is a suffusion of ochreous scaling toward the sub-apex of the
fore-wing.

This type of female has been taken in the Kalinzu area and
not eastward.

Early stages: The eggs are laid on the young leaves and
shoots of two species of plants, Rawsonia and Dorvyalis
(flacourtaceae). The are at first greenish white in colour.
In shape they are elongate domes with faceted surfaces and
with fine spines usually at the angles of the facets. The eggs
are usually laid on the underside of the leaves. The larva is
green with a median yellowish line and along the dorso-lateral
aspect of each segment are short feathery spines. The bases of
the spines are bluish. The pupa is green, darker on the thorax
and paling off on the wing scutes. The head is bluntly bifid;
the two projections are yellow and from these a yellow line
runs along the angle of the wing cases, along the dorsal line as
far as the spiracles. These spiracles are black dots on a yellow
base. The thorax is strongly keeled, but not so much as the
abdominal segments which are acutely ridged. The cremaster
and stalk are orange with one large central black mark and one
small black dot on either side. The last abdominal segment
also has two black dots on the ventral surface. The duration
of the pupal stage is approximately three weeks, though in a
few cases the insect emerges after a month or more.

Distribution: Within Kenya, the localities from which we
have taken the species are Kisii and South Kavirondo in wooded
areas; it also occurs in Kakamega, Kabras, and Elgon, whilst in
Uganda it is common in most of the forests, particularly those
of central and western Uganda.

[Very similar to Cy. caenis in general habits. The males
choose a sapling or branch of a tree and will stay in the vicinity
for hours at a time, chasing away any other insect that may
encroach on their preserves. The females stay largely in the
thicker undergrowth, but may be found on the edges of clearings
or roads where they sun themselves for a moment, then fly

swiftly across to disappear on the other side. The species may
be found rarely on rotting fruits or on droppings of carnivora.

Cy. herminia johnstoni extends much further eastward than
does caenis, being common in the Kakamega-N andi area. As
one travels westward it tends to merge into the typical or
nominate race herminia herminia and in the Kalinzu forest in
western Ankole, occur forms which are practically identical with
forms from the type locality. The type of johnstoni came from
Toro, thus within the west of the distribution of the race and
not very far in reality from the areas where overlapping with
herminia takes place.

The females appears to be less variable than those of Cy.
caenis; in its western distribution there is a tendency to yellow-
ing instead of white on the margins of the wings. Vide f.f,
svltani , Bryk. — T.H.E.J.]

CYMOTHOE CORANUS, Smith. Pl. 27, fig. 4. PI. 27a, figs. 1-7.

Expanse: Male, 55-60 mm.; female, 60-65 mm. Sexes unlike.

Male: Ground colour creamy white with a blackish border.

F.-w. : Ground colour cream, with dusky scaling at the bases
of la and lb and slightly in base of cell; costa black edged, the
black widening out toward the apex where it becomes continuous
with the blackish-brown border of the outer edge of the wing.
This border is narrowest in 5, widest in 4 and 3, and at the line
of contact with the cream ground is accentuated by a series of
black arrow marks. In some specimens there is a slight amount
of cream just distad to the arrow marks in lb and 2.

H.-w. creamy white, with greyish scaling at the base of the
cell, and along the inner fold where it is slightly brownish. The
dark border is fairly uniform in width, averaging 3 mm. and
gradually shading off at the upper angle. Just internal to the
border is a series of black contiguous arrow marks, the bases of
the marks touching the dark border, but enclosing a slight
amount of cream scaling.

There is little variation in the males on the upper surface;
it usually takes the form of an increase or reduction in the
amount of cream colour distal to the submarginal row of black
marks in the hind-wing and in areas lb and 2 of the fore-wing.

Undersurface: There is considerable variation here, which,
broadly speaking, is due to the presence or absence of dusky
scaling within the general pattern of outline dark marks. The
ground colour varies from a cream to creamy-ochreous. Both
wings are crossed by a dark median line, that of the fore-wing
being almost straight, bent only toward the costa in 6; the hind-
wing line, commencing at about mid-point in the costa, is slightly
curved inward and extends to the anal angle. Internal to the

median line of the fore-wing is a series of dark-lined loops, from
lb-6, those in 4-6 being elongate; these are characteristic, and
persist in both sexes. On the proximal side of the median line
of the hind-wing is a similar series of irregular-shaped dark lined
marks. In the fore-wing cell is a trilobed dark lined mark,
followed by a mark in lb; in the hind-wing the cell contains an
8-shaped mark. Distal to the median line of both wings is a
double row of wavy shadow lines, which in some specimens
coalesce, thus forming a dark, zone of brownish-grey. Beyond
this is a wavy angled submarginal line, with a uniform border
beyond, or in some specimens strongly shaded with rusty to
brownish in 3-5. The general pattern of dark lines is the same
in all variations, the difference in appearance being the dusting
over of the intervening spaces with grey-brown scaling.

Female: General colour black with a white bar.

F.-w. black-brown with a white discal band commencing at
about mid-point in la, thence curving up toward the costa just
beyond the cell. In some cases there is a slight extension of
the white, into areas lb-3, on the inner side of the position of the
dark median line already referred to in description of the male.
The proximal edge of the band is sharply cut, whilst the outer
edge is irregular and dentate. Adjacent to the band is a series
of post-discal white angular marks extending through the sub-
apex; and beyond, in areas 5 and 6, are two white sub-apical
spots. Beyond and contiguous to the post-discal angle marks
are black arrow-marks arranged to follow the contour of the
wing,

H.-w. : Basal triangle black-brown with an extension along
the inner fold. Beyond is a wide discal white band, slightly
convex on its inner edge, more convex on its outer edge which
is irregular, due to an angular extension of the dark ground in
each area. The band gradually decreases in width toward the
costa. Beyond the band is a series of white, somewhat angular,
post-discal spots, bordered distally by a series of black arrow
marks arranged in a curve and following the contour of the
wing.

Underside : Both wings crossed by a median dark line almost
straight in the fore wing and strongly curved (concave) in areas
3-5 of h.-w., then through the apex of the cell, thence in almost
a straight line to just above the anal angle. Internal to this line
the ground colour is whitish-grey, carrying within the cell and
beyond, and in areas lb of the fore-wing, black-lined marks.
The distinctive marks on the proximal side of the median line,
referred to under the description of the male, are here equally
represented, and form part of the discal white band which crosses
both wings as described above. Beyond the band, the outer

edge of which is not sharply defined, the ground colour is grey-
ish-white, with a varying degree of purply-brown especially
toward the extremities of areas 3-4 of the fore-wing and from
3-6 on the hind-wing. Within this border are three parallel series
of darker, shadow, angled marks.

The variation on the underside of the females is in respect
of the degree of dark scaling proximal to the inner edge of the
discal band of the fore-wing.

Early stages: These are unknown to me.

Distribution: Within Kenya, this species is confined to the
coast forests from Ganda to the Shimba Hills. There is some
seasonal variation, as evidenced by the intensification of the
markings on the underside of both sexes. Specimens taken in
March-April are lightly marked below, whilst those captured in
July are heavily marked. The first few specimens secured were
taken by Messrs. Millar and Jeffrey in a patch of forest near
Kwale; later in the year a series of eight males and nine females
were obtained in the Makadari forest on the top of the Shimba
hills. Although the species must have been numerous, it was
only secured in one spot where a certain amount of tree felling
had taken place and an open glade had been formed in the dense
forest growth. Here many examples were seen as they glided
along the sunlit opening for a few moments to disappear in the
adjoining thick growth.

It will be seen from the plates that the female of this species
resembles certain forms of Cy. herminia johnstoni, and further-
more, there is a similarity between them and the female of
Euptera pluto kinugnana.

CYMOTHOE TEITA, sp. nov. PI. 32, figs. 1-4.

Expanse: Male, 48-50 mm.; female, 60 mm. Sexes unlike.

Male: General colour cream with black border carrying
cream arrow marks. F.-w. strongly suffused with black over
the base of the cell and basally in areas la and lb with an
extension of the black along area la so that it joins the broad
black border. Costa reddish at the base then black where it
merges into the black of the apex. Central portion of the wing
cream, with the veins black, the cream area including the mid-
portion of lb, the bases of 2, the extreme of 3, 4-6. Beyond this
cream area the wing is dark grey-black carrying a series of very
distinct arrow-shaped cream marks accentuated distally by jet
black. The tips of the veins are orange especially 5-7. H.-w. :
Extreme base, costa, inner fold and broad marginal border dark
grey-black, central portion of wing cream; the marginal border
ornamented with cream arrow marks as in the fore- wing. End
of veins with triangular orange tip marks; in between them the

fringe has a white spot. The black arrow marks are accentuated
distally with a black line then by a narrow cream line.

Underside: Wings crossed by a narrow dark median line;
the inner portion of the wings creamy with a slight greyish
dusting at the base and along the fold of the hind-wing; outer
portion of wings with greyish shading over the portion corres-
ponding to the dark border of above; the arrow marks not well
defined but obscured, but each with a black dot at base; areas
la, lb, and 2 distal to the median line rusty brown, strongly
toothed, the other areas also toothed up to the costa in blackish;
the incised portion of fore-wing shaded with blackish especially
toward the fringe. The cells of both wings with black-lined
marks; area lb with a black circle and beyond this a crescentic
black mark. Fore-wing with a discal series of crescentic black
lines.

Female: General colour black with a wide median white
bar. Both wings with the basal half black, with black lines in
the cells, the distal margin of the black area sharply defined and
just within its edge small white dots in 2 and 3, and large white
marks in 4 and 5 of the fore-wing, and in the hind wing diffuse
white spots in 4-6. The marginal border is broadly grey-black,
on its proximal edge, strongly dentate with black arrow marks,
with white spots at bases, then admarginally a further series of
jet black sagittate marks. The veins with triangular orange
spots at tips.

Underside: Basal portion brownish-grey bordered by a

brown median line. The white bar of above as well as the other
white spots are here represented, but the outer border is purply-
grey with a faint indication of the black marks of above; margi-
nal orange spots larger than above. The fore-wing cell and the
base of lb have ochreous patches outlined in black.

Early stages: Unknown.

Type: Male, Bura, 5,000 feet, October, 1938, in Coryndon
Museum, Nairobi, Kenya. Paratypes four. Type of female
with same data.

Distribution : This species has so far only been taken on the
Bura ridge and in patches of forest on the Teita Hills.

Remarks : This very distinctive insect was submitted to
Prof. Carpenter of Oxford for his opinion. There is nothing
like it in the Hope Dept., Oxford. Prof. Carpenter writes as
follows: “ It is not matched by anything in the British Museum.
The red apical dots at edge of wing are quite peculiar; also the
black lines traversing the f.-w.; also the sub-marginal white
lunules are not ‘ staggered ’ as in aurivillii, Stgr. (= zombana )
which seems to be nearest to it/’

Plate 33

Cymothoe indamora amorinda, van S.

Figs. 1 & 2, male, upper and under surfaces.

Figs. 3 & 4, f.f. damora, van. S., upper and under surfaces.
Figs. 5 & 6, f.f. amorinda, van. S., upper and under surfaces.

Of the female, he writes: “Very like a series of B.M.
ascribed to melanjae, B.-B., but the male of melanjae differs con-
siderably from yours except in respect of the lines crossing the
white disc of the f.-w. Prof. Carpenter put forward the sug-
gestion that aurivillii, melanjae and teita may be forms of a
polymorphic species.”

Owing to its distinctive feature I have described the Bura
insect as a species. The five males taken are uniform in colour
and pattern. There is a slight superficial resemblance between
this species and vumbui, van Son., from the Vumba Mts., S.
Rhodesia. It is possible that they are conspecific, and repre-
sent geographical races, but they are so distinctive that there is
little chance of confusion of the two.

CYMOTHOE IN D AMOR A AMORINDA, subsp. nov.

PL 33, figs. 1-3. PL 34, figs. 1-3.

Expanse: Male, 55-57 mm.

Male: General colour creamy white with black basal area
and border. F.-w.: Basal area of fore-wing dark grey with a
green bloom, with a darker spot in the cell and in lb. Costa
blackish with a slight expansion, sub-costa at apex of cell and
then merging into the grey-black border. Blackish border with
an irregular inner edge due to an extension of the cream- white
toward the apex in 5, then obliquely down in lb and 2; the dark
areas in la, lb, and 2 enclosed by this white projection and the
white discal portion; the black in these areas darker than the
border. There are also black lines at the apices of the marginal
dark border. H.-w. : Basal area and an extension through lb
grey with greenish tinge; inner fold greyish; marginal border
brown-grey with a dentate inner margin; disc of wing creamy
with an extension of the cream ground into the border at 5. The
border carries a series of black contiguous angles largest in areas
2-4 then smaller and less defined in 5-7. The black border is
more dense at the upper angle.

Underside: Basal areas of both wings greyish, followed by
a white zone sharply differentiated from the border and crossed
by an almost straight median line. The cell has a few wavy
lines at the base in black and in brown toward its apex; the in-
dentation of the marginal border by the white ground colour
as seen above is again reproduced below, but the dusky areas
are here greyish with a slight brown tinge especially at the
incision of the fore-wing.

Type, Kalinzu, W. Ankole, Oct., 1937 (T. H. E. Jackson).
Paratypes, 8, Kalinzu, Oct., 1937, Jan. -April, 1938 (T. H. E.
Jackson).

Female : This sex occurs in two forms : (a) ground colour
brownish-black, darker over the base of the hind-wing and fore-
wing with the black area in this latter extending distally from
a point at about mid la through to the costa to almost the origin
of vein 7. There is often a contiguous black area in lb which
is more apparent in the second form to be described. Distal to
this basal dark area in 3 and 4 are two indistinct ochreous
streaks, otherwise the fore-wing is immaculate. Hind-wing
with the basal area blackish-brown slightly greyish toward apex
of cell; disc of wing with a large ochreous to creamy patch with
a diffuse proximal border and a dentate distal edge filling the
basal portions of lc-6 and mid 7. Beyond this a wide brownish-
black border carrying a series of submarginal blackish triangular
spots slightly joined by a dark angled line. = damora f.f. nov.

Type, Kalinzu, W. Ankole, Dec., 1937 (T.“h7^T Jackson)
Paratype 1, same data.

Form (b) differs from the above in that the hind-wing patch
is white, more defined proximally and more angled into 4 and 5
and thus nearly meeting the submarginal row of dark spots. In
the fore-wing the basal black area is more defined and is
accentuated distally by a white bar, represented in la and lb
by slight streaks, on which a large dark spot is placed, and
widest in 2 gradually tapers in 3 and 4, forming a triangle;
beyond the cell are two white spots basal in 4 and 5 and slightly
present in 6. Beyond this white patch the wing is brownish-
black and immaculate. = amorinda f.f.

Type, Kalinzu, W. Ankole, Dec., 1937 (T. H. E. Jackson)
Paratypes five same data, and Feb., 1938, Jan., 1938.

Underside: The wings are crossed by a median dark line,
straight or almost so across the fore wing, and in the hind- wing
slightly angled from the costa to vein 6, then in a straight line
toward the hind angle. The basal areas of the wings on the
proximal side of this line are greyish-brown with in the fore-
wing wavy cross lines through the cell, sub-basal in lb and
beyond this a discal wavy line.

In form (a) there is some white scaling sub-basal in 4-6,
beyond the median line the wing is more ochreous-grey, the f .-w.
brown with faint whitish shadow marks distal in lb and 2, while
the apex is slightly white scaled. In the hind-wing the ochreous
patch is defined proximally but distally it is diffuse and inden-
tated by an indistinct post-discal row of arrow marks outwardly
shaded with whitish. The border is ochreous-grey-brown.

In form (b) the basal portions of the wings, proximal to
the dark median are dark ashy-brown crossed by indistinct
wavy lines through the cell and discally. The white areas
of above are here present but less defined and more restricted,

and beyond the whitish area in the fore-wing the apex is oehreous
grey-brown with a row of darker spots from 2-5, the tip of the
wing being whitish scaled.

Early stages: Unknown.

Distribution: This species has been taken by T. H. E.
Jackson in the Kalinzu Forest, S.W. Uganda. The second form
of female described above bears a strong resemblance to the
figure of hewitsoni given in Seitz. PI. 35, but is distinct.

[Confined in my experience to the Kalinzu forest in W.
Ankole, where in small local areas it is fairly common. The
males behave as do those of Cy. caenis and Cy. In. johnstoni,
choosing a branch usually high up in a sunny patch and chasing
each other and fighting for the best vantage points. The females
are very weak fliers and easy of capture, but they are protected
by a remarkable resemblance on the wing to Amauris and
certain Acraeas such as Ac. lycoa whose flight would appear to
be mimicked as well. — T.H.E.J.]

The specimens described above were submitted to Mr. G.
Talbot, as they presented some difficulty. Mr. Talbot has kindly
made a comparison with material in the British Museum, and
writes as follows : “ Male : this specimen differs slightly from
the eleven males in the B.M. Hind- wing: post-discal black

scalloped line from veins 2-6 much thinner, and edging the pale
discal band from veins 3-6 there is usually a series of dusky
spots on the band, of which this specimen shows a remnant in
areas 3 and 5. Underside paler than ours, the post-discal lines
much thinner; on fore-wing this line at the inner margin is
directed outwards whereas in all ours it is straight; also it is
slightly waved, but in ours it is quite even; discal crenulate line
faintly marked anteriorly, and obsolete below vein 4; in
our specimens it is strongly marked throughout. Hind-wing
post-discal line waved anteriorly; discal line, as on fore-wing,
only marked anteriorly. Both wings with the distal markings
weakly defined.

“ Female: We have a series of nine; yours differ in certain
points: Upperside of f.-w. with the post-discal white patch
separated from the spots beyond end of cell; the latter spots in
4 and 5 are narrower; the inner edge of white patch is continued
to vein 5, where it meets the distal edge of the somewhat
triangular-shaped patch. In typical indamora there is a con-
tinuous white band, broadening out below vein 3. Hind-wing
as in indamora except that the post-discal black spots are less
distinct. Underside apparently not different from indamora in
which some variation occurs in the curvature of the post-discal
lines limiting the dark proximal areas; on fore-wing, the extent
of white scaling beyond the cell, and in the distal area, is also
variable.

“ The dark female specimen I take to belong to the same
species, but we have no specimens like it. It requires a name.

“ As these insects are rather variable, the differences indi-
cated in the specimen (male) must be constant to some degree,
especially on the underside, in order to say that it represents
another form or sub-species.”

In a further communication Mr. Talbot states : “ The type
of indamora, a female, came from Calabar. Fore-wing upper-
side with inner edge of discal white band only slightly angled at
vein 4, and oblique below this vein, so that the white patch in
area 2 is narrow and does not reach vein 2; outer edge of band
more even than in the eastern race and with no distal projec-
tions at veins 2 and 3.

“ The male, Oban, Distr., S. Nigeria, differs from eastern
race chiefly on fore-wing upperside; outer edge of discal band
sharply defined and, as in hewitsoni, separated from the outer
curved band. Underside not obviously different, but on hind-
wing the discal irregular thin line is very weakly marked.”

Cymothoe zerikeri (= langi, Holland) occurs together with
indamora and hewitsoni in the Congo and Cameroons. Whether
zenkeri, indamora, and hewitsoni are three species seems doubt-
ful. One of our two hewitsoni males is from the same area as
our Nigeria male of indamora, but was caught in June, the
others in March.

C. zenkeri, Rich., has langi, Holland, and stetteni, Bryk., as
synonyms. The discal band on both wings is sharply defined.
Fore-wing with narrow band not complete, but two sub-apical
spots and a lower spot. I have not seen this from Uganda.”

CYMOTHOE CYCLADES OCHREATA, Gr.-Sm. PI. 34, figs. 3-6.

Expanse: Male, 66 mm.; female, 72 mm. Sexes unlike.

Male: General colour orange with black line on hind wing,
and black spots. F.-w. : Ground colour bright orange with only
very slight dusky tinge at the base, apd with a slight darkening
over the distal portion due to the dark colour of below showing
through. Apex and margin of wing diffusely dusted with
blackish scaling dentate in spaces, and just within this a sub-
marginal row of black dots more or less following the contour
of the wing to sub-apex.

H.-w. : Ground colour orange, slightly dusky at the base,
brownish at the fold. Disc of wing crossed by a black line clear-
cut proximally, and more diffuse distally. Two dark marks sub-
costal in 7; a double ring and a circle in the cell, and' a few dark
discal marks. Border of wing dusted with black scales, internal
to this, a well-marked zigzag line with black dots in the spaces,
and more internal, a shadow line faintly indicated.

Underside: Sandy-ochreous with a grey tinge; fore and
hind-wing crossed by a well-marked median band, clear cut
proximally and strongly shaded greyish distally. In the fore-
wing a series of dentate or tooth lines enclosing dull orange on
the proximal side of the median line. A strong black S mark
sub-basal in lb; cell with black-lined marks. The marginal
border carries a zigzag shadow line and a series of black dots sub-
marginally. H.-w. : Ground colour as fore, slightly more

greyish; median line as described, and beyond this, shadow
lines and black spots as in fore-wing.

Female: Basal areas to as far as the median line dark-grey-
brown and beyond this paler, more whitish especially on the
fore-wing dusted over with brownish scaling. On the proximal
side of the median line in areas 2-5 of fore-wing are clear-cut
white triangles outlined in black. In areas la and lb are large
diffuse dark spots on the median line extended up in the other
areas as dark angular marks. There is a further row of post-
discal arrow marks surrounded by whitish from la to the sub-
apex. Distal to this is a series of small black submarginal dots,
following the contour of the wing.

H. -w. : Basal area as described, but inside the median line
in areas 6-7 are two pale whitish marks, and in these same areas
but distal to the line are two whitish arrow marks represented
in the other areas by dark shadow marks. A series of dark
submarginal spots are present from the anal angle to sub-costa
in 7, the two upper marks being largest.

Underside: General ground colour of both wings greyish-
buff with the dark narrow median line distinct throughout. The
white triangles of above are again reproduced. There is also a
double dark mark in sub-base of la and lb. The other fore and
hind-wing marks are faintly indicated.

Early stages: Unknown.

Distribution: This species occurs in the forests of western
Uganda, Budongo, Bugoma.

[Very similar in habits to Cy. lurida butleri. I have taken
a male feeding on human excrement. It is usually confined to
the dense forest regions and its distribution is restricted to the
Budongo forest whence it extends into Ituri in the Congo Beige.
— T.H.E.J.]

CYMOTHOE BECKERI THEODOSIA, Stgr. PI. 35, figs. 3 & 4.

PL 35a, figs. 1 & 2.

Expanse: Male, 90 mm.; female, 93 mm. Sexes unlike.

Male: General colour golden yellow with dark hind-wing
border. F.-w. : Golden yellow paler in the disc, and dusky
shaded along the outer edge of the costa and outer border; fringe

dusky and white spotted. A submarginal row of arrow-shaped
dark spots becoming rounded toward apex. Strong markings of
lower surface show through above. H.-w. pale creamy-yellow
shading to golden just before the dark black-brown border.
Fore and hind-wings strongly scalloped with white spots in the
incisions, submarginal row of contiguous arrow marks with paler
areas at apices submerged in the dark ground of the border.

Underside: A rich rusty-red paler over the discs; apex and
a mark from costa to 4 ochreous; cell and areas lb and 2 with
irregular white marks; area la mostly white, over proximal two-
thirds. Shadow marks present in post-discal area and sub-
marginal marks indistinct.

H.-w. : Rusty-red paler over the disc. Basal area of wing
with conspicuous white marks, the outer discal ones being in a
row from costa to just above the anal angle. Post-discal shadow
marks indistinct; between the outer row and the submarginal
angled line are ochreous streaks. Fringe alternately black and
white.

Female: General colour black with white spots and a large
creamy patch in the hind-wing.

F.-w. mostly black with a bluish suffusion over the base
mostly in lb; central portion of la and lb cream. Cell with two
white marks; sub-basal in 2 a large round white spot; a series of
three white streaks in a row sub-basal in 6-4, then continued
down as white arrow marks through 3-lb. A further row of
white marks crosses the post-discal area while there is a con-
spicuous row of more or less rounded white spots submarginally.

H.-w. with a large cream area filling the centre of the wing;
basal area suffused with blue scaling; inner fold of wing blackish
continuous with a broad black marginal border, with black ex-
tending slightly up the veins. The rows of white spots, one
outer post-discal, one submarginal. Most of the spots, with the
exception of those in the cell and the three long ones beyond,
tinged with bluish distally.

Underside: F.-w greyish with the white markings of above
again reproduced but not strongly. H.-w. as fore, but the basal
area with a conspicuous white spot at base of 7 and 8; a double
black mark in the cell, and a dark bar crossing from the costa to
the inner fold, at the discal area. There is also a narrow median
line running through the white patch.

Early stages: Unknown to me.

Distribution : This species has been taken in western

Uganda in forest. The female of the Uganda form lacks the
orange patch in the hind-wing.

CYMOTHOE EGESTA CONFUSA, Auriv. PI. 35, figs. 1 & 2

PI. 37, figs. 1 & 2.

Expanse: Male, 65-68 mm.; female, 85-88 mm. Sexes unlike.

Male: General colour ochreous-yellow with darker hind-
wing and yellowish bar.

F.-w. : Ochre-yellow with a greenish suffusion over the base,
shading to brown-black 1-3 where the median band is clear-cut
proximally. The distal border of the yellow median band is
defined by a broad confluent series of arrow marks which lessen
in size as they approach the apex. The marginal border is grey-
brown and internal to this is a submarginal series of blackish
spots, joined by a narrow line in la-2, then again in the apex.

H.-w. : Basal area greenish-brown shading to brown-black
at the proximal edge of the yellowish median band; this band is
widest in 6 and gradually tapers to just above the anal angle
which is produced to a point. Distal to the median band is a
dark brown-black zone, indented on its outer aspect by a zigzag
ochreous line; this in turn is followed by a series of black arrow
marks joined together on an ochreous base. The marginal
border is grey-brown to olive.

Underside: The ground colour is ochreous strongly suffused
with grey especially over the hind-wing. The median line is
indicated by a narrow black line outlined distally by ochre. The
markings are diffuse except those in the sub-base of lb and in the
cell. The submarginal row of spots are small and black.

Female : General colour dark grey-brown shading to a
deeper brown at the cream median bar which crosses both wings
from the anal angle then up through the fore-wing to 5. Inter-
nally it is sharply defined, but distally in the fore-wing it is
bordered by diffuse dark arrow marks. In the hind-wing it is
clear-cut. In some specimens there is a pale area above the
median band in 6. The wide border of the wing is less dark
brown and carries a row of sub-marginal arrow-shaped black
marks which follow the contour of the wing and becoming
smaller as they reach the apex. The fore-wing cell is crossed by
dark wavy lines while there is also a series of dark discal arrow
marks from costa to lb.

Underside: Ground colour ochreous grey, with the median
line narrow and internally bordered with brown especially on
the hind-wing. The submarginal row of blackish dots is present
in both wings but obscured in areas la and lb of the fore-wing.
There is a strong circular signet-ring mark in lb of the fore-
wing and less strong marks in and beyond the cell.

Early stages: Unknown.

Distribution: The species occurs in the forests of western
Uganda at Katera and Kalinzu and more plentifully in the Kivu

area. It is a ground feeder and is usually seen flying low to the
ground with gliding flight, but is not easy of capture. The Kivu
specimens are richer than those taken in Uganda, and the ad-
marginal ochreous band of the hind-wing is broader.

CYMOTHOE LURIDA BUTLER1, Grunb. PI. 36, figs. 1-4.

PI. 37, figs. 3-4.

Expanse: Male, 70 mm.; female, 82 mm. Sexes unlike.

Male: General colour golden yellow with darker border.
F.-w. : Ground colour golden-yellow shaded with olive at the
bases, particularly in the hind-wing, with an extension through
lc, fold of wing buffy-grey. Costa of f.-w. narrowly black at
edge, widening out toward apex; a brown apical line below the
costa, apex and marginal border brownish. Submarginal row
of brown arrow marks obscure in lb, but largest in 3 and 4.
Some specimens have a few wavy lines in the cell; such speci-
mens usually have a broader border. Fringe dark brown with
white spots in spaces.

H.-w. : Border brown with a shading of the same colour to
beyond the row of submarginal arrow marks; these marks may
be separate or joined up by a fine line.

Underside: Variable, either brownish-ochreous, or olive

ochreous, the wings crossed by a median brown line outlined
distally with ochreous, more or less straight from anal projec-
tion to 3 then waved or angled and curving inward to mid-point
between apex and end of cell. The markings are obscure
except the black-lined ones of the cells, one beyond the f.-w.
cell, and a circular one in lb. F.-w. with a zigzag discal line
and between this and the upper part of the median line, an
ochreous patch extending to the costa. Fore and hind- wings
with submarginal blackish arrow marks, and faint post-discal
greyish arrow marks. Base of hind-wing with darker basal
patch as seen above; cell with two ochreous spots and one at
base of 7 and 8.

Female: General colour red-brown with black tip to fore-
wing and white sub-apical bar.

F.-w. : Basal half red-brown with dusky shading particu-
larly beyond the cell; cell with distinct irregular red marks out-
lined with black. Beyond the cell, black, followed by four
distinct white triangular marks in the disc outlined in black
with an extension of the white into the costa, and continued in
2 as a pale triangular spot or a black angle. Beyond this bar, to
the apex the ground colour is black-brown but crossing it are
two rows of white triangular spots with black arrow marks
centrally, the largest patches being in 2 and 3, smaller in lb,
and with much less white in 4-6. These white spots are con-

Plate 34

Fig. 1, Cymothoe herminia johnstoni, f.f. budongo, van. S.

Fig. 2, Cymothoe coranus, male, undersurface.

Figs. 3 & 4, Cymothoe ochreata, Gr. Smth., male, upper & under surface.
Figs. 5 & 6, Cymothoe ochreata, Gr. Smth., female, upper & under surface

Plate 35

Cymothoe egesta conjusa, Auriv. Figs. 1 & 2, male and female.
Cymothoe beckeri theodosia, Auriv. Figs. 3 & 4, male and female.

Plate 35a

Cymothoe beckeri theodosia, Auriv., under surfaces.

Plate 36

Cymothoe lurida butleri, Grunb.

Figs. 1 & 2, males. Figs. 3 & 4, females.

Plate 37

Cymothoe lurida butleri, Grunb. Figs. 1 & 2, under surfaces.
Cymothoe egesta confusa, Auriv. Figs. 3 & 4, under surfaces.

tiguous with the discal white bar and form a more or less con-
tinuous sub-apical bar across the wing. The submarginal row
of black arrow marks, following the contour of the wing, are
white tipped. H.-w. : Ground colour red-brown slightly more
dusky along the costa and inner margin, and paler distally.
Dividing the basal red from the paler area is an obscure series
of dusky discal marks largest in 5-7. Beyond this and in these
same areas are whitish patches and continuous with them is a
series of post-discal dusky shadow arrow marks. The sub-
marginal black arrow marks are distinct and largest in 6 and 7.
The fringe is dusky with white spots, increasing in length at the
upper angle, and forming a white line.

A variation to the above has the red cell marks of the f.-w.
more distinct; but there is a reduction in the white sub-apical
bar; in the hind-wing the differentiation between the dark basal
area and the paler border is stronger so that the submarginal
and post-discal rows of black spots appear more distinctly.

Underside: Variable; either a brownish-grey, olive-grey, or
greenish-ochre, with shading of violet-grey toward the apical
half of the fore-wing and beyond the median line in the hind-
wing. The median line is similar to that in the male, but red-
brown, with ochreous, often with a strong shading of dusky-
grey distally. The white areas of above are here reproduced,
but more indistinctly. The outer border of the h.-w. is shaded
with rusty as is also the incised margin of the f.-w The discal
and post-discal markings are ill-defined shadow marks, greyish
with white shading. The submarginal spots are small. The
inner fold is often strongly pink, or greyish-red.

Early stages: The eggs of this species are laid on the leaves
of Rinore a (violaceae). The egg stage lasts a week to ten
days. The larva in second stage is deep sky-blue with black
branched spines; the two immediately behind the head, longer.
The spiracular line is a vivid scarlet, and below this are short
spines, yellow in colour. Head and anal segment yellow. The
full-grown larva is longitudinally striped. The dorsum is olive-
green shading to sky-blue followed by a broad band of crimson-
madder, and below this a yellow fading out to yellowish-white
on the ventral surface. This lateral yellow carries short yellow
spines. The dorso-lateral line, corresponding to junction of the
green with blue, carries long black branched spines; the longest
spines are those on the first thoracic segment, and those on the
two last segments. The head is bright yellow with black mouth-
parts. The last segment is also yellow.

The pupa is deep green, rather paler on the wing-cases. The
spiracles are scarlet, outlined with black, the black edging ex-
tending slightly to the dorsum. I am indebted to Miss Fountain

for the description of the larva and pupa. Unfortunately the
shape of the pupa is not given.

Distribution : This species occurs through most of the forests
of Uganda, east to the Elgon-Nandi, Kaimosi forests. It is com-
paratively common, and the males are very conspicuous. In
common with others of this group, they frequent the under-
growth and will settle gn decaying fruit. The undersurfaces of
both male and female are definitely cryptic, for when the insect
is at rest with wings folded it is difficult to detect. The flight is
low and gliding, but nevertheless swift and the insect is not easy
to capture.

[Although found throughout Uganda and extending east to
Kavirondo, this species is never much in evidence. Both sexes
are shy and retiring, preferring shady places or even dense
forest to the more open spaces frequented by the other represen-
tatives of the genus. They are difficult to capture. The flight
is swift and the insect is very much on the alert. — T.H.E.J.]

CYMOTHOE (Harma) THEOBENE. Dbl. & Hew.

PI. 38, figs. 1-6. PI. 38a, figs. 1-4.

Expanse: Male, 50-55 mm.; female, 62-65 mm. Sexes unlike.

Both males and females have the posterior border of the
fore-wing incised so that the posterior angle is not rounded.

Male: General colour dark brown with yellow bar and
spots. Bases of fore and hind- wings dark brown shading to
orange in the fore-wing and to grey-brown at the fold of
the hind-wing; hind and fore-wing crossed by a wide yellow-
cream bar, tapered at toward the anal angle and widening out
through the fore-wing and reaching the costa, the distal edge in
fore-wing strongly shaded with orange. Beyond this band both
wings are dark brown, the fore-wing with a series of yellow
spots running from below the costa to the hind-angle, with two
large spots sub-apical. The hind-wing has a series of sub-
marginal yellow spots distally accentuated with a dark line
which follows the contour of the wing.

Underside : Both wings ochreous with a dark median line
crossing both wings, sharply defined proximally but shaded dis-
tally. On the proximal side are a series of contiguous dentate
cream spots which widen out toward the inner edge of the
hind-wing. The cell of the fore-wing has a reddish irregular
bar which carries on into lb; beyond the cell is another reddish
bar, whilst the base of the hind-wing is freckled with red-brown
and blackish scaling. The borders of both wings have diffuse
ochreous shadow marks and blackish submarginal dots.

Females: Variable, but there are three main forms as
follows :

Form A: Mostly white, with darker basal areas and blackish
borders. Basal areas of fore and hind-wings suffused with grey-
ish-brown, often with the distal edge accentuated, and clear-cut
by a wavy dark-brown line which fades out toward the inner
fold of the hind-wing. There are usually two white triangular
marks beyond the fore-wing cell followed by one sub-basal in 2.
The rest of the wings are white dusted over with greyish scales,
border of wing grey-brown more especially at the apex and outer
border above hind angle, but the white ground extends into area
5 distally. There is usually a large sagittate dark mark sub-
apically, then a more or less continuous series of outer post-
discal arrow marks, and a sub-marginal series. The hind-wing
is less strongly dark along the border, the widest portion being
in the position of the “ tail.” There are usually two large dark
marks in 7, sub-costa followed by a submarginal series, those
toward the anal angle being joined by an angled line. There are
often two extra dark spots in 4 and 5. Nominate 9 f. theobene.

Underside: Ground colour white slightly pink to violet
suffused over the basal areas, the whole heavily stippled with
grey scales. The arrangement of the marks are similar to those
of the male.

Form B : A variety in which the whole of the upper surface
is strongly suffused with brown-grey scales, slightly more red-
dish at the bases of the wings. The white spots are obscured,
but the dark ones appear as a double row through the fore and
hind-wings along the outer border. On the hind-wing, how-
ever, there is a large quadrate white spot in 7 at about the mid-
point. 9 f . nigro-lutescens, Poulton.

Form C: Somewhat similar to B, but the general tone a
reddish to tawny-grey. The sub-costal dark marks of the fore-
wing more distinct. Nr. 9 f. lutescens, Poulton. There is every
combination of these three forms to be found in a long series.
9 f. sordida.

Form D : This represents a very distinct form in which the
fore and hind-wing white bar is reduced in width, more or less
evenly in the fore-wing to only 3-4 mm., widest in 2, and in the
hind-wing it is widest in 6 and then gradually tapers off toward
the hind-angle. It is interrupted in 6-7 by two large black semi-
quadrangular spots. The reduction in the width of the white
band is due to an invasion of the white on the distal border by
a considerable increase in marginal black, to enclose the row of
dark post-discal spots which are usually free. In the hind-wing
there is this same encroachment, but on the other hand the post-
discal row of dark spots, usually irregularly defined, are here

represented by large blackish marks distally flecked with white.
All the areas which are dark are more blackish than in the
nominate female form.

It will be observed then that this form bears a strong super-
ficial resemblance to certain black and white females of Cy. h.
johnstoni, or to the similarly coloured females of Euryphura
plautilla.

This distinctive female may be known as jacksoni f.f. nov.
Named in honour of Mr. T. H. E. Jackson, who obtained the form
in Kalinzu forest, western Ankole, Dec., 1937 (van Someren).

Reference to the named female forms of this species will be
found in the Trans. Ent. Soc., 1921, pp. 469-472, by Prof. Poulton.

The coastal Kenya race of theobene to which the name
blassi, Weym., may be applied, differs in the male by being less
strongly marked with dark brown, thus generally more yellow,
with the fore-wing median band wider and less defined distally.
On the other hand, the females are much more strongly marked
basally, and have a wide dark border; the white area thus stands
out as a broad median band. The hind-wing is not “ tailed.”
PI. 38, figs. 7 and 8.

Early stages: The eggs are laid on a species of Rinorea
(violaceae) and on Dorvyalis (flacourtaceae). The adult
larva is green with a dorsal dark green line paling toward
the line of slightly branched spines which, starting at the first
thoracic segment, run the length of the body to the penultimate
segment. These spines are black. Below the spiracular line,
which is yellowish, are smaller yellowish spines. The pupa is
slender but has a strong keel on the abdominal segments, a
lesser keel to the thoracic segments, and a marked ridge along
the upper edge of the wing-cases. The spiracles are black with
a yellow base. The head is only slightly bifid.

Distribution: The species is very common throughout the
forested areas of Uganda. They are less addicted to the ground
level than most of this group. The common form of female is
the white one, and this bears a resemblance to Salamis parhassus,
which is equally common.

The coastal race is, so far as Kenya is concerned, rather a
rare species, and my records are for the Rabai Hills and the
Ganda Forest. It probably also occurs on the Shimba Hills from
which it has been reported by my collectors. The species has
also been taken in the Nairobi district in the Karura forest in
1916, but it is very scarce.

This species is subject to occasional migratory movement,
but the reason is obscure.

[This is the commonest species of Cymothoe in Uganda and
in some places, such as around Kampala and again in the S.

Sudan, it is indeed one of the commonest butterflies. Its habits
are the same as for most of this group, but being so numerous
the females are more in evidence— T.H.E.J.]

EUPTERA ELABONTAS, Hew. PI. 39, figs. 1-4, la-4a.

? race mweruensis, Neave.

Expanse: Male, 45 mm.; female, 50 mm. Sexes unlike,
usually.

Male : General colour black with creamy or greenish-yellow-
ish marks. F.-w.: Ground colour black; cell with a narrow streak
sub-costal followed by two dots and a transverse line or crescent
at end of cell; beyond the cell a sub-costal dot with a streak
below. Sub-basal in la-2 is a yellowish bar; beyond this a
wider discal band, narrow in la, slightly wider in lb, widest in
2 and smaller and more distad in 3. In 4 there is a lunate mark
with in 5 and. 6 angled marks, apices directed inward; sub-
marginally there is a streak in la, followed by U marks in lb
and 2, then by thicker marks in 3 and 4, then fine ones in 5 and
6. The marks in la and lb are slightly greenish tinged distally.

H.-w. : Ground colour black. A yellowish bar crosses from
the mid-costa through the bases of 6 and 5, through the cell and
sub-basal in 1c; admarginally is a fine interrupted line following
the contour of the wing. A second discal bar crosses from oppo-
site the mid-point of the inner fold in gradually decreasing width
toward the upper angle, the spot in 6 set in and small. A sub-
marginal series of U marks runs from just above the hind-angle
to the upper angle of the wing. There is then a fine admarginal
interrupted line from anal angle to upper angle. The thorax
has two whitish bars, while the abdomen has two double bars
and a terminal dot. PI. 39, figs. 1 and 4.

The above description fits specimens from the greater part
of its range in eastern Uganda, thus agreeing with the characters
of the race mweruensis , Neave, but two males from Entebbe
and one from Mawakota exhibit a much wider discal band (vide
PI. 39, figs. 3 and 6), whilst the spot on the inner fold of h.-w. is
large and white, as also the costal spot.

Underside : Ground colour ochreous-grey with a slight

greenish tinge toward the margins; with the ground colour of the
cell more greyish. The light marks of above are here white but in
addition there is a black lined mark in the cell between the two
white dots of above, and a triangular black-lined mark at the
end of the cell. The white sub-basal marks in lb and 2 are black
lined proximally, while submarginally in lb and 2 are a large and
small black mark; and very small black dots in 3, 5, 6. H.-w. :

Ground colour as described; white marks replace the yellow ones
of above and in addition there is a series of black dots between

the discal band and the submarginal loop marks, the largest
black dot is in 7.

The underside of the variety of male referred to above is
more ochreous to rusty and of a stronger colour so that the white
dots, lines, and bars show up more distinctly.

Female: This sex occurs in two forms, the usual one being
black and white and very neptis- like; the other very similar to
the male, but larger, and without the prolongation to the anal
angle of the hind-wing, thus the wing is more rounded.

Form 1. General colour black and white. F.-w. : Ground
colour black, with the white markings arranged as in the male,
but those of the cell and along the sub-margin rather obscured,
whilst the discal bar is expanded more abruptly from a small
streak in lb to a large 4 mm. mark in 2 slightly smaller in 3,
very small in 4, and contiguous with a streak in 5; other marks
in 5 and 6 are “ crochet hook ” in shape. H.-w. : Ground colour
black with a white streak at the base, followed by a narrow
white bar as in the male, but the discal band wide except at the
inner fold and 7 and slightly tapering toward the upper angle.
The submarginal white line is not very distinct, but between
this and the admarginal line the ground colour is blacker. The
thoracic and abdominal bars are as in the male, but white.
Underside very similar to the male but both white and black
marks larger.

This can be taken as representing the dominant form. PI.
39, figs. 4 and 8.

Form 2. Male like, that is, with a strong pattern of light
marks on a black-brown ground, the light marks being cream,
and larger than in the male, but otherwise similar. A point of
difference lies in the fact that the ground colour is browner;
nevertheless, practically all the lines, angles, and spots are
accentuated by black on the proximal side. This may be known
as primitiva, f.f. nov. Type, Katera, Oct., 1935 (T. H. E. Jack-
son). PI. 39, figs. 2 and 7.

Early stages: We have not examined the eggs of this
species, but larvae have been taken on a plant, not yet identified.
They conform to the general shape of many of this group,
being dull green with long feathery lateral spines rather
paler in colour, those of the first thoracic and sub-terminal
segments being longest. The first two thoracic spines are
slightly brownish at the bases. When not feeding, the larva
lies along the mid-rib of the leaf, usually on the underside, with
the lateral spines pressed close to the surface, so that it becomes
practically invisible. When it has attached itself for pupation
the head is curled up toward the abdomen, and the lateral spines
are brought forward and meet. The larva gradually loses its

full green colour and becomes a semi-translucent greyish-green.
The skin is cast within 24 hours of suspension.

The pupa is pale green with a semi-glazed surface, the
abdominal segments strongly ventricose, with very small black
spots on the spiracles, and considerable angling of the third seg-
ment dorsally, the ridge being carried forward to meet the pos-
terior angles of the wing scutae. The other abdominal segments
are slightly ridged.

There is a slight constriction between the posterior angles of
the wings over the segments scutella, then an expansion over
the “ shoulders ” in the form of a ridge and terminal spine, and
forward of this the ridge runs into the bifid horns of the head.
The abdominal ridge and ala spines are yellowish to brown.
There is very little veination of the wing scutes. The pupa stage
lasts three weeks to a month under favourable conditions, but
some may carry over for a longer period.

Distribution : From the Kaimosi-Kakamega forests through-
out the eastern portions of Uganda to Mawakota. It is a forest
species. The female of the dominant type is a wonderful mimic
of some of the larger Neptis.

[The males of this interesting genus are found in sunny
patches in the forest, often several together, but each choosing
a separate branch from which to take short flights to chase away
each other or any other insect which may encroach too near
their stance. The flight is rapid but they are comparatively
easy to capture when settled, for they are bold and will even
attempt to “ chase ” a moving net when raised too close to them.
Females are usually taken before the sun becomes too hot, flying
low along a road or path, or feeding on fruits or moisture. It
is this difference in flight and habits which enables one to
differentiate between them and Neptis.-— T.tLE.J.]

EUPTERA HIRUNDO RUFA , J. & T. PI. 40, figs. 1 & 2.

PI. 41, figs. 1 &2.

Expanse: Male, 40 mm.; female, 45 mm. Sexes unlike.

Male: General colour black with greenish-cream markings.
F.-w. : Ground colour intense black. Cell with a sub-costal
streak at the base, followed by a “ comma ” mark, then by two
transverse lines and a broken angle at end of cell. Beyond this
are two longitudinal streaks, with a dot in 6. Sub-basal in lb
and 2 and basal in 3 are angled marks and a dot. A discal band
widest in la crosses to lb, then in 2 and 3 is represented by dis-
creet spots, that in 2 being oblique and that in 3 small; this band
is then represented in 4-6 by small dots. There is a submarginal
series of V or U marks from la-4, then faint in 5, more distinct
in 6.

H.-w. more brown-black especially along the costa, marginal
border and inner fold. There is slight transverse green scaling
in the cell and a small white dot abo„ve. The discal band is
triangular in outline, represented basally as a long line in lc
thence tapering rapidly to a small spot in 6. Beyond this band
are small spots post-discal in 4-6. A series of lunate or U marks
run submarginally from the upper angle to the “ tail ” or anal
angle where the line becomes straight.

The thorax is crossed by two interrupted bands and a line
over the scutellum. The abdomen has a large patch covering
most of the segments except the basal three. All the light marks
on the wings and body are greenish-cream.

Underside: Quite different to the upper surface and giving
the appearance of a Precis. Ground colour grey-brown, darker
over the basal portions and more brownish on the borders.
Cell with a black-lined mark; at end of cell two black lines
shaded outwardly with whitish; beyond, a double whitish angled
mark in 5 and 6. A black mark sub-basal in lb; distad to this
and crossing the sub-bases of 2 and 3 an indistinct brownish line,
and distal to this the ground colour is more greyish, in a bar up
to the costa; the submarginal U marks of above are slightly
indicated but each has a black dot, those in 5 and 6-7 with white
proximally. The apex of the wing carries two white marks.
H.-w.: Ground colour as fore. The brown line of the fore-wing
is continued down through the hind-wing in a zig-zag passing
sub-basal in 7-6-5, base of 4, then inwardly curved and then
straight along the inner fold.

Female: The only female form which we possess is ruja ,
J. & T. General colour dark brown-black with wide band across
fore and hind-wing. F.-w. cell to just beyond, the basal portion
of la and lb the extreme bases of 2 and 3-4-6 black brown sharply
cut from the discal orange-ochreous band. Cell with one longi-
tudinal basicostal line followed by a triangular creamy spot,
then by two transverse lines and one angled line beyond cell,
all outlined proximally in black. The discal band is wide and
extends from the mid-portion of la-6; it is widest in 2 and tapers
off in 6. Within the distal ends of this band are black spots,
large in lb, then of uniform size to the costa. Within this series,
in 5-7 are white dots. The dentate outer border of the band is
outlined in black.

H.-w: Basal portion black-brown, straight for its greater
length then angled up toward the costa in 7. Beyond this a
wide creamy to orange band with on its distal border a series of
black spots outlined distally with ochreous and followed by a
black bordering which stands out from the blackish-brown of
the border.

Plate 38

Cymothoe ( Harma ) theobene.

Fig. 1, male. Figs. 2 & 3, nominotypical females.

Fig. 4, f.f. lutescens, Poulton.

Fig. 5, f.f. jacksoni, f. nov., van. S.

Fig. 6, f.f. nigrolutescens , Poulton.

Figs. 7 & 8, Cy. theobene blassi, Weym. Kenya coast, male and female.

Plate 38a

Cymothoe theobene, Dbl. & Hew.

Under surfaces.

Fig. 1, male.

Fig. 2, typical female.

Fig. 3, f.f. jacksoni, van. S.

Fig. 4, f.f. nigrolutescens.

Plate 39

Euptera elabontas ? mweruensis, Neave.
Figs. 1, 3, la, 3a, males, upper and under surfaces.
Figs. 2, 2a, f.f. primitiva f. nov., van S.

Figs. 4, 4a, nominotypical female.

Plate 40

Euptera hirundo rufa, J. & T. Figs. 1 & 2, male and female.
Euptera pluto kinugnana, Smith, fig. 3, male.

Pseudathyma plutonica, Btlr. Fig. 6, male.

Pseudathyma nzoia, Sp. nov., van. S. Figs. 4 & 5.
Pseudathyma callina, Smith. Figs. 7 & 8, male and female.

Plate 40a.

Euptera kinugnana, Smith.
Fig. 1. Male.

Figs. 2 arid 3. Female.

Plate 41

Euptera hirundo rufa, J. & T. Figs. 1 & 2, under surfaces.
Euptera pluto kinugnana, Smith. Fig. 3, under surface.
Pseudathyma nzoia, van S. Figs. 4 & 5, under surfaces.
Pseudathyma plutonica, Btlr. Fig. 6, under surface.
Pseudathyma callina, Smith. Figs. 7 & 8.

Underside: Basal areas grey-ochreous as also the apex and
border. In the fore-wing the cell marks are brown; sub-basal in
lb is a black spot; the discal bar is as above, ochreous and the
black spots of above are here as blackish dots. H.-w. : Basal
area grey-ochre at the base and border; discal band ochreous
with a darker shading distally. Black spots of above here as
black dots. Submarginal lunate marks indicated and pale
edged internally.

Early stages: Unknown to me.

Distribution: This species has a more western range than
the preceding species extending to Malabigambo forest at Katera
in N.W. Lake Victoria region. It has not been taken from
Kavirondo, but from Mawakota east to Jinja.

The female described is a wonderful mimic of certain Precis
such as P. millonia rauana.

EUPTERA PLUTO KINUGNANA, Smith. PI. 40, fig. 3.

PL 40a, figs. 1-3. PI. 41, fig. 3.

Expanse: Male, 45-48 mm. Female, 46-50 mm.

Male : General colour black with cream bars and lines.

F.-w. : Black-brown; cell with a sub-basal-costal longitudinal
streak followed by two transverse lines and two small dots
beyond the cell. A discal yellowish-cream band starts at about
mid- la, 4 mm. wide passes through lb, 2, and narrows in 3.
Above this band are three semi-arrow marks forming a sub-
apical bar, and beyond this small white spots in 3-6. There is a
series of U submarginal lines with the enclosed areas black, and
outlined with black; there is then an admarginal interrupted line
following the contour of the wing from the hind-angle to the
apex.

H.-w. : Basal area black, with more brown-black extending
down the inner fold; marginal border brown-black carrying a
series of U to complete ovate marks enclosing jet black and out-
wardly bordered by the submarginal black line; beyond and ad-
marginally an interrupted paler line.

Underside : Strongly reminiscent of Neptis saclava. Ground
colour ochreous with a greyish tinge particularly distally. The
cell with two black-lined marks outlined with whitish; sub-basal
in lb a black spot broadly outlined in white; discal band white
and as above; sub-apical bar as above but white; a series of black
marks, large in lb and 2, submar ginally, outlined distally in the
first two and encircled in the other areas with white and enclos-
ing some ochreous ground. Admarginal interrupted line white.

H.-w.: Ground colour ochreous to greyish distally. Basal
area with a forked white bar with the outer prong extending
into 6 basally. The cell with a circular brown mark; the discal

band white and crossing the wing from mid-costa to just above
the anal angle. Submarginally there is a series of ovate white
circles enclosing black dots on the ochreous ground, the black
dots set eccentrically and proximal. On the admargin an inter-
rupted white line following the wing contour.

Female: General colour black and white. Ground colour
blackish-brown crossed by an interrupted white discal band.
This band, in areas la-lb, at about mid-point consists of rect-
angular white spots, followed in areas 2 and 3 by more triangular
marks set slightly out, especially in 2, followed by a small
triangular mark in 4, then by two long marks in 5 and 6. Distad
to the band is a series of white dots from 2-7 followed by a series
of fine white-line loops enclosing black areas and accentuated
distally by black lunate marks. The cell contains two sub-
costal white dots outlined in black and toward its apex are two
white lines outlined with black. H.-w. : Basal portion blackish
followed by a wide white discal band with an irregular inner
edge, and outwardly bordered by a series of ovoid white marks
enclosing black areas, and distally accentuated by black. The
cell is crossed by an ill-defined white line.

Underside : Base of wings with rusty scaling and grey-brown
especially along the proximal edge of the fore-wing white bar.
The cell has two black-lined marks accentuated outwardly with
white; the base of lb has a black circular mark outlined with
white. The discal white band is as above, both in fore and hind-
wing, whilst the series of ovoid marks on the distal border are
more generally white with black dots at their proximal ends and
strongly outlined on the distal edge with brown-black; beyond
this series, the ground is whitish shading to rusty on the margin
of the wing especially toward the anal angle of the hind wing
and toward the apex of the fore-wing. The ovoid spot in the
distal portion of area lb in the fore-wing is largely black-centred,
forming an “ eye.”

Early stages: Unknown to me.

Distribution : Within our boundaries this species is confined
to the forests of the coast, Vanga (Ganda forest), Shimba hills,
and Rabai hills, north to Sekoke. They have the same habits
as the other species of the genus.

PSEUDATHYMA PLUTONICA, Btlr. PI. 40, fig. 6.

PI. 41, fig. 6,

Expanse: Male: 40-42 mm.; female slightly larger. Sexes
somewhat alike.

Male: F.-w. : Ground colour black-brown; cell with one
basal angle, followed by three transverse black lines, ground
slightly paler between line two and three. Discal band inter-

rupted; a large spot mid in la and lb, then two large contiguous
spots set distad in 2 and 3, followed by three white spots sub-
basal in 4-6 set in a line toward the costa. Beyond this a series
of black triangular marks, apices inward, the upper ones in 5-7
outlined in white, the others with white at base of triangle, thus
distally, and contiguous with a double line black and white, the
black proximal. Wing fringe with white dots intemervularly.
H.-w. : Ground colour brown-black crossed by a wide discal band
whose proximal edge is curved from the inner fold to about mid-
costa, with the distal edge slightly scalloped and convex, the
longest bars being in 5, so that the whole has the appearance of
tapering at both ends. Beyond this band is a series of triangular
black marks bordered distally by two white and a black line
between; the wing fringe dark with white lunates.

Underside: Ground colour ashy grey-brownish tinged with
slight rusty tone to the margins and in the cell marks. Cell
with marks as above but area between line 2 and 3 whitish.
A black spot basal in lb. Other dark and light marks as above,
but admarginal white lines more pronounced and intermediate
one less so. H.-w. : Ground colour as above with white mark-
ings similar, but more pronounced; the basal area crossed by
two ill-defined bands; submarginal and admarginal marks of
above conspicuously reproduced below. I have described the
light markings above and below as white, but in fresh examples
they are really apple-green. This colour soon fades out.

Female: This sex is larger and somewhat similar to the

male.

Early stages: Unknown to me.

Distribution: Was originally described from Toro and has
since been taken by Jackson in Kakamega and Kampala, west-
ward to Kamengo and Kalinzu.

[Both sexes where they occur are found flying low along
paths and roads through the forests, or feeding on decaying
fruits and damp mud. During the hotter parts of the day they
retire to the forest shade. They are perfect mimics of Neptis,
in both sexes. — T.H.E.J.]

PSEUDATHYMA NZOIA, sp. nov. PI. 40, figs. 4 and 5.

PI. 41, figs. 4 and 5.

Expanse: Male, 40-42 mm.; female, 50-52 mm. Sexes some-
what similar. General colour black and white and resembling
Neptis ssp.

Male: F.-w. : Ground colour black-brown; cell with a dark
basal area outlined distally with deeper black, followed by a
lighter bar, then a further dark bar outlined in black. The
discal band is much narrower than in plutonica (being only 2£

mm. as against 4 in the nominate race) and starting at mid la,
extends into lb where the spot is distinctly indented on the
proximal and upper side so as to give an inward kink. The
spots in 2 and 3 set more distad are here also much smaller, the
upper one not approaching the lower vein of the cell nearly so
close as in plutonica. The spot in 4 is very small whilst those
of 5 and 6, smaller than in plutonica, are not elongate. The
other lines and marks are as in that species but less marked
whilst the submarginal loop in 6 is laterally constricted.

H.-w. : Ground colour as fore; discal band much narrower
than in plutonica; less curved on the proximal edge, but with a
distinct angle on the distal edge at 4. Furthermore the outer
edge is less scalloped, more regular, as the black ground does
not extend up the veins. The other marks are as in plutonica.

All the pale marks are strongly apple-green when fresh and
fade out to a creamy opaque white. This green colour is much
more evident in this species than in any other.

Female: The remarks regarding restriction in size of the
light spots, here always white, described in the male, hold good
in this sex also; more particularly is this the case in respect to
the white areas in the fore-wing; moreover the two spots in 2
and 3 are more distad while that in 4 is very small.

On the undersides of both sexes the ground colour is a
richer brown, not so tinged with grey, whilst the submarginal
black triangles in both fore and hind-wings are longer and more
pronounced.

Early stages: We have bred this species out in very con-
siderable numbers. The larva, first grey-green, turns dull
green at the first moult, then brighter green in the next stages,
though the abdominal segments are darker than the thoracic.

The head is yellowish, each segment from the second to the
anal is furnished on the dorso-lateral aspect with a long feathered
filamentous spine, longest anteriorly and posteriorly, slightly
less green than the body. There is a blue dot on the dorso-
lateral part of the first segment. As is common with larvae of
this group, one finds them flattened out along the lower surfaces
of the leaves and they are then difficult to detect. The pupa is
semi-glazed, pale green in colour, with a slight transverse ridge
on the third abdominal segment terminating in a sharp spine
before which is a gold spot. There is also a slight longitudinal
ridging on the other posterior abdominal segments with short
spines. The ridges and spines are ochreous yellow, this colour
extending across the third segment and as a triangle or dome
shape on the fourth and on the spines of the other segments.
The abdomen is strongly ventricose. The thoracic segments are
longitudinally ridged, but not sharply. There is a restriction

at the junction of the thoracic-abdominal segments reflected in
the upper edge of the wing cases then an expansion to the
“ shoulder spines ” which are black. There are black spines on
the bifid head, two black dots on the fore-part of the thorax and
two more on the scutellum. The ventral surface is immaculate.

Distribution: The limitations of this insect are from the
Elgon-Kitale district south to Nandi and Kavirondo and again
in Kalinzu. It is everywhere rather rare, although just after
an emergence several may be noted. This insect is here
described as a species on account of the very distinct arrange-
ment of the white spots and the general different colouration
above and below; furthermore, there is a marked overlap in the
distribution of this and plutonica, for both occur throughout the
range of the other. Vide distribution note.

Types, male and female, Kitale, Oct., 1932, bred van
Someren. Paratypes, seven males and seven females, same
data. In my collection; four specimens, Jackson coll, from
Elgon, Kakamega, and Kalinzu.

PSEUDATHYMA CALLINA , Smith. Pl. 40, figs. 7 and 8.

PL 41, figs. 7 and 8.

Expanse: Male, 42 mm.; female, 53 mm. Sexes somewhat
similar.

Male: General colour black and white. F.-w. : Ground
colour black-brown, cell with an angled sub-basal mark followed
by three black transverse lines; sub-base of 6-4 with white longi-
tudinal streaks, small in 6 and longest in 4, these forming a
continuation of the white discal band which commencing in la,
where it is widest, 3 mm., is continued in lb where the spot is
somewhat triangular, apex forward, then in 2 and 3, but these
spots are set distad to the first two, separated from them, and
somewhat pear-shaped. (There is a marked similarity to the
western plutonica, but the shape of the spots in 21 3, and 4 is
different.) There is a series of triangular black submarginal
marks, bases outward, from lb-4, becoming elongate beyond,
distally bounded by two parallel white lines separated by a
black line, and extending admarginally from the hind angle to
the apex. The black sub-apical marks are partially enclosed in
a narrow white border.

H.-W. : Ground colour black-brown; disc of wing crossed by
a white band, almost straight for its greater length on the proxi-
mal edge, except where it stops short of the inner fold, and
below the costa. (It is thus less curved than in plutonica). On
the distal border it is curved in 7-6 then almost straight, but
indented by the extension of the blackish ground along the
veins, until the inner fold where it curves upward. It extends

further into the inner fold than in plutonica, reaching lb. The
submarginal triangular black marks are well marked and extend
from the hind-angle to the upper angle where they are more
elongate in 6 and 7, and thus differ from plutonica.

The admarginal double white line, with black between, is
strongly marked.

Underside: Black brown, with a greyish tinge; cell with a
sub-costal basal whitish streak, followed by an inverted, double
lined V in black with whitish enclosed, followed by a whitish
transverse bar, then by a double lined transverse bar in black
with whitish in between, and two whitish spots beyond, sub-
basal in lb is a black crescentic mark. The discal band and the
white marks in 4-6 are as above. The submarginal black marks
are here represented by a large ovoid mark in lb, more quadrate
in 2 and 3, then elongate in 4-6, those in 5 and 6 outlined except
proximally, with white. The admarginal white and black lines
are well marked, and the white marks on the fringe stand out
clearly. H.-w. : Ground colour as fore, base of wing with a
basi-costal white line, only one curved line crosses the dark area,
the second, seen in plutonica , i^only slightly indicated by a few
white scales. Cell with a black ring mark. Discal band as
above, but shaded on its distal edge with blackish. The sub-
marginal black triangles well defined and accentuated by white
outline not meeting at apex but broad on the base, followed by
an admarginal white line. Wing fringe with conspicuous white
internervularly. Apart from the detailed differences cited
above, between this species and plutonica, with which it might
be confused, the whole underside has a more black and white
appearance, less brownish than in the latter.

Female: Ground-colour less blackish than the male. F.-w:
Cell marks and other pattern as in the male, with the exception
of the discal bar; the marks in la and lb taken together form a
blunt triangle; the next two spots are more as in the male, but
those of 4-6 are more generally elongate especially the sub-
costal, so that there is less tapering off toward the costa. Hind-
wing pattern as in the male, but larger throughout and with
less of a break along the proximal edge in 7.

Underside: Generally similar to that of the male but larger
and the ground colour more brownish.

Early stages: Unknown to me.

Distribution: Hitherto only taken within the boundaries
dealt with, in the Kalinzu and Budongo Forests of Uganda, and
apparently very scarce, for Mr. Jackson’s collectors have only
turned up two males and three females. The habits are similar
to those of others of this genus.

(To be continued.)

100

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